“UNCW Women’s Basketball Program Sees Transformative Talent Recruitment Under Coach Nicole Woods
In a bid to revamp the struggling UNCW Women’s basketball program, Coach Nicole Woods has undertaken a significant recruitment drive that has injected new energy and star power into the Seahawk squad. The addition of nine new players for the current season, including individuals with impressive accolades like McDonald’s All-American nods and awards from the CAA, marks a turning point for the team.
Setting ambitious targets for the upcoming season, Coach Woods aims for the team to achieve the most significant turnaround in the country. Known for her prowess in recruiting, honed during her time as an assistant coach at UNC Charlotte, Woods leveraged the opportunities presented by the Wilmington region during her first full offseason in 2024.
Describing their recruitment strategy as ‘Portal Combat,’ inspired by the Mortal Kombat videogame, Woods and her staff wasted no time in securing five transfer players immediately after the conclusion of the 2023 season. Woods motivated her team by offering them the entire month of May off if they successfully completed the signings by the end of April, demonstrating her knack for incentivization.
Beyond the recruitment success, the strong bond between the players and Coach Woods is evident. New players, including Ali Zalaya, Kate Hollifield, and Jania Hall, rave about Woods’ genuine care and personal touch in their interactions. Each player resonates with the coach’s values and appreciates the welcoming environment she has fostered within the team.”
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