In a testament to her exceptional skills and dedication, FAMU Senior Jada Rhodes has been named the 2023 Preseason Player of the Year by the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). Rhodes, who recently recorded her 1,000th career kill, is joined by her teammates Brooke Lynn Watts and Isis Williams, along with freshman standout Iyonnie Sanford, in the prestigious Preseason All-SWAC Team selections.
Rhodes, a powerhouse on the court, who transferred to FAMU from Alabama State over this off season where she solidified her place in Alabama State history, ranking fourth all-time in kills with 1,027. Her impressive statistics from the previous season include a team-leading 332 kills, averaging 3.07 assists per set while hitting .220. Rhodes also made her mark in conference play, recording 214 kills and averaging 3.96 per set, hitting .313. Her season-high of 22 kills against Prairie View A&M showcased her prowess, and her honorable mention AVCA All-American title further underscores her excellence.
Joining Rhodes on the Preseason All-SWAC First Team is Brooke Lynn Watts, who dominated the season with team highs in kills (365), points (410.5), and kills per set (3.48). Watts led the conference in points per set (3.94), attacks per set (9.78), and kills per set, also contributing significantly with 258 digs and 13 double-doubles.
Isis Williams, another First Team selection, was a defensive powerhouse for the Rattlers, leading the team with 100 total blocks, including 24 solo and 76 assisted. Williams recorded a season-high eight blocks in a match against Bethune-Cookman, finishing fifth on the team with 150 kills and fourth with 212 points.
Rounding out the impressive list of preseason honors is Iyonnie Sanford, named to the Preseason All-SWAC Second Team. As a true freshman, Sanford made an immediate impact, seeing action in 111 sets and 31 matches. She finished second on the team in kills (237), points (277.5), and blocks (69), recording at least ten kills in 11 matches, with a career-high of 17.
The recognition of these athletes highlights the strength and depth of Alabama State's volleyball program, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead. With Rhodes, Watts, Williams, and Sanford leading the charge, the team is poised for success, aiming to build on their achievements from the previous season.
As the preseason gets underway, fans and competitors alike will be watching closely to see how these standout players perform, anticipating a season filled with thrilling matches and the potential for new records to be set. The SWAC and the volleyball community eagerly await the contributions of Jada Rhodes, Brooke Lynn Watts, Isis Williams, and Iyonnie Sanford, expecting nothing short of excellence from these exceptional athletes.