Shaw Men and Women Basketball Teams Poised for Post Season Run

"Winning the CIAA trophy is not enough!" said Shaw Junior Guard, Devon Mclendon. Both the Bears and Lady Bears head into Charlotte today with not one, but many chips on their shoulders. "We feel as though teams in the conference don't respect the growth we have made over the years. But we know that you have to earn respect, and that's just what we plan on doing,"  said Lady Bear's Junior Forward, Kyria Buford. 

The Bears last won the CIAA Championship in 2002, and the Lady Bears in 2008. Never have both the Men's and Women's teams won the tournament simultaneously. This year, both the Bears and Lady Bears have a strong opportunity to do so. 

But according to Mclendon and Buford, winning the CIAA shouldn't be a goal, but an obstacle. "When we entered this season, we realized that the winner of the CIAA could have a chance to win the National Championship," said Mclendon. 

Mclendon has a point. According to D2basketball.com, based on record, standings, and quality wins, the CIAA is the more competitive conference for both Men and Women in Division II Basketball. Since the winner of the CIAA tournament receives and automatic bid to the NCAA D-II Tournament, the winners of the CIAA Tourney (both men and women) will have powerful chances of bringing home a National Title. 

"This season would be a success if we bring home the CIAA trophy, however a National Title would push our program and University to new heights," said Buford. The tournament begins today in Charlotte, NC at Time Warner Cable Arena.

Both the Bears and Lady Bears will begin their tournament play with games against Lincoln University. The Women tip-off tonight at 7 p.m. and the Men Wednesday at 1 p.m.