SIAC Stars Shine Bright: HBCU Women's Basketball Players of the Week Honored
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Posted By: Will Moss on February 25, 2026 ATLANTA — The Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), one of the premier NCAA Division II athletic conferences for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), has announced its latest Women's Basketball Players of the Week. In a thrilling week of competition, two standout student-athletes have earned this prestigious recognition for their exceptional performances on the hardwood. Amelya Hatch, Edward Waters University Hailing from Edward Waters University, a private HBCU located in Jacksonville, Florida, Amelya Hatch has been named the SIAC Women's Basketball Player of the Week. Hatch, a dynamic guard, showcased her remarkable skills and leadership, leading her team to crucial victories. Her impressive stat line included averaging 19.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, cementing her status as a dominant force on the court. Key Takeaway: Amelya Hatch's standout performance not only earned her individual accolades but also brought well-deserved recognition to the Edward Waters Tigers, one of the SIAC's rising basketball programs.
Samarian Franklin, Miles College Representing Miles College, a private HBCU located in Fairfield, Alabama, Samarian Franklin has been named the SIAC Women's Basketball Freshman of the Week. Franklin, a dynamic young talent, showcased her potential with an impressive stat line, including averaging 15.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.0 steals per game. Her stellar contributions helped propel the Miles College Golden Bears to success on the court. "Samarian Franklin's recognition as the SIAC Freshman of the Week is a testament to the depth of talent emerging from our HBCU basketball programs. Her performance is a glimpse into the bright future of HBCU athletics." The SIAC, a conference with a rich history in HBCU sports, continues to be a platform for showcasing the exceptional student-athletes who call these institutions their home. Performances like those of Amelya Hatch and Samarian Franklin not only highlight the individual talents of these players but also shine a spotlight on the vibrant and thriving HBCU basketball community. HBCUConnect's Perspective: The SIAC's weekly honors for Amelya Hatch and Samarian Franklin are a source of great pride for the HBCU community. These young women's remarkable achievements on the basketball court are a testament to the dedication, resilience, and talent that exemplifies the HBCU experience. Their success not only inspires their fellow student-athletes but also underscores the importance of supporting and elevating HBCU sports programs, which serve as a crucial bridge between academic excellence and athletic prowess. HBCUConnect celebrates the accomplishments of Hatch and Franklin, and we look forward to witnessing the continued growth and success of HBCU basketball players across the nation. Originally reported by SIAC Sports. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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