University of the Virgin Islands women’s basketball Head Coach Stephanie Cooper outlined ambitious plans for the upcoming season during a Tuesday interview on 90.9 FM’s “Girls With Balls” with host Carol Howell.
After what she calls an “amazing growth season” in her debut year, Cooper celebrates the team’s progress toward making a name for the UVI Lady Buccaneers. “The win-loss record didn’t speak to the respect that the ladies earned,” Cooper said during the radio interview. “It’s not an automatic win anymore – teams have to scout UVI.”
Now in her second year, Cooper has constructed what she believes is a more competitive roster, featuring only one true freshman and seven transfers. “It’s only up from here,” Cooper said of the program’s trajectory.
The program has secured significant recruiting wins, including USVI national team forward Keshara Romain and St. John native Diara Parsons alongside Ashlynn Lemos, Khaelii Robertson-Mack, Aspyn Roberson, Atalia Thomas, and Natalie Williams.
Cooper noted that five transfers came from junior colleges, attracted by the opportunity to complete their four-year degrees while competing in NAIA basketball.
Forwards Lameez Khan, Kashay Bass, and Sydney Taylor and St. Thomian Guard Ariana Renault will be returning.
Graduate assistant Aliyah-Deen Ahmad enhances the lineup, bringing expertise as a decorated Sun Conference champion and professional competitor.
The roster experience has allowed Cooper to adjust her coaching approach significantly. “We’re going the pro route,” she explained. “They have the experience and IQ to where I don’t have to teach the basics anymore.”
Cooper emphasized that her philosophy has shifted toward letting the team lead themselves, a luxury afforded by the veteran presence on this year’s squad.
Cooper has branded this season with the theme “Road to Tuscaloosa, AL,” referencing the site of the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference championships. Acknowledging the program’s strengthened position entering conference play, Cooper said all preparation is focused on competing with the league’s top teams.
“In March we’ll be talking about what size rings we wear,” Cooper declared during the interview. “We’re bringing a ring to the rock!”
Cooper reflected on her personal growth since arriving in the Virgin Islands, describing it as integral to her coaching development. “For me, my biggest growth was embracing the culture and tying that in with basketball,” she said.
The cultural connection extends to team messaging, including the motto #j’ouverthoops. Cooper joked, “If you can get up at 4 a.m. for J’ouvert, you better come to practice with that same energy!”
Cooper described the current team culture as defined by grit, emphasizing the characteristic as emblematic of the program’s new identity. She also emphasized the importance of community support during the radio interview, stating, “We just need you guys’ support; come to the games. Your energy behind us makes the difference.” Games will be available via HBCU League Pass for remote viewing.
Key events for the upcoming season include the Sept. 19 Buccaneer Meet and Greet, Women’s Basketball Media Day on Sept. 20-21, and Buccaneer Madness on Oct. 3.
Ahmad is expected to provide additional perspective on the season during her scheduled appearance on 90.9FM at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 16.
Follow the Lady Buccaneers on Instagram @uvi_athletics, Facebook at The University of the Virgin Islands Athletics, and Coach Cooper @coachscooper23 for season updates.
St. Croix Source
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