The FAMU women's basketball team who finished the 2019-20 season with a 6-21 record (4-12 MEAC) have decided not compete during the 2020-21 season citing an abundance of caution about the COVID-19 pandemic. FAMU athletics had not reported any positive cases among team members, although there has been an uptick in positive cases among the general student body in the past two weeks.
The announcement came early Monday afternoon. The Lady Rattlers were scheduled to play their first game today to against crosstown rival FSU.
In a statement FAMU athletics said, “the Rattlers began preseason camp with a limited number of players on the roster. With the recent spike in COVID-19 cases, it has been determined that moving forward would not be feasible.”
"We are very disappointed but obviously, we are taking concerns and circumstances within the women's basketball program and COVID-19 very seriously. Student-athletes' health and safety is and will remain our top priority," Vice President and Director of Athletics Kortne Gosha said. "The department of athletics and the University are committed to adhering to all COVID-19 protocols and making sure we keep every Rattler student-athlete safe.
First year head coach Shalon Pillow, who was hired in May, also expressed disappointment over cancellation of the season.
"I'm disappointed for my two seniors and the young ladies who have worked very hard to get to this point. Although this was a tough decision, we will continue to support our young ladies during this time."