The FAMU volleyball team added two transfers to its roster in the form of Jada Taylor from Grambling State and Nina Sharpton from North Carolina State.
"We are adding outstanding talent to our already high-level group," said Head Coach Gokhan Yilmaz. "This class addressed several of our needs and makes our 2022 team a fun group. Now we turn our attention to turn this group into a great team. Our schedule will be extremely challenging, and I am confident we will rise to the occasion."
Taylor joins the Rattlers after spending the last two seasons playing as a defensive specialist for Grambling State. Taylor was one of the top defensive players in the nation in 2021, as she ranked 24th in digs per set, averaging 5.09. Taylor finished second in the SWAC in the same category.
"I'm excited to add another established and competitive defensive player to our roster," said Yilmaz. . "Jada knows the level of competition in the SWAC, and she has been one of the top back row players in our conference. We are expecting Jada to be competitive right away."
Sharpton joins the Rattlers from North Carolina State. Sharpton had one of the best freshman seasons in Wolfpack history as she became the first Wolfpack freshman in the rally scoring era to eclipse 1,000 assists in their debut season with 1,012. Sharpton ranked 6th in the ACC and 105th in the nation in total assists. Sharpton was consistent regarding assists at a high level as she had 40+ assists in 11 matches, including five matches with 50+. Furthermore, Sharpton was second on the team with 29 service aces, including a career-high six against Appalachian State.
"Nina is a Florida native who saw some success at the Power 5 level," said Yilmaz. "She was recruited very highly out of high school, and we are confident she will be a great addition to the setter position. Nina solidifies our setter position and will make our gym very competitive."
The 2021 SWAC Champions report for camp on August 8, with the first practice scheduled for August 9.