Lady Brave Norianna Haynes named SWAC Women’s Player of the Year
What a year it’s been for senior Norianna Haynes.
The Alcorn State University Lady Braves’ forward was named 2015-2016 Player of the Year by the Southwestern Athletic Conference. Norianna was also selected as one of the members of the All-SWAC Women’s Basketball First Team.
Norianna has displayed exceptional skills on the hardwood while at Alcorn. This season, she led the SWAC in scoring by averaging 20.3 points a game. Her 568 total points ranks 39th in NCAA. She recorded a league high 12 double-doubles. In conference play, Haynes averaged 20.9 points and 9.9 rebounds. She recorded 222 free throw attempts (7th in NCAA), making 157 (14th in NCAA).
Norianna finished her career with 914 points, 399 rebounds, 103 steals, 66 assists, and 24 blocks in her two seasons as a Lady Brave.
Norianna is comfortable with the mark that she will leave on Alcorn women’s athletics. She credits her success to her sisters on the court.
“I feel accomplished,” said Norianna. “I couldn’t have gotten this far without my teammates and coaches.”
Despite a nagging knee injury, Norianna remained diligent on the court and in the classroom, and silenced all of the critics with her success.
“It’s a good feeling. In my last year, I tried to play hard through the obstacles that were in my way. I felt like I had something to prove to all of those who didn’t believe that I would be a successful student, college basketball player and mother.”
Lady Braves Head Coach Courtney Pruitt applauded Norianna for her drive to beat the odds.
“I’m very happy for Norianna,” said Pruitt. “Despite injuries and overcoming other obstacles, she worked very hard this year. She stayed focused and was able to outplay other players in the conference.”
Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Derek Horne acknowledged Norianna’s talent and success on the basketball court.
“Norianna is a versatile player and effective at every level,” said Horne. “It’s no surprise that she’s achieved this well-deserved honor. Norianna enjoys the game and has been one of the most watchable Lady Braves for the past two years.”
Norianna has big plans for her future. She said that she will attend the 2016 Indianapolis Combine for potential WNBA players in April.
