Trustees Honor UDC Basketball Achievements

On Tuesday, April 15, 2008, the Board of Trustees of the University of the District of Columbia recognized the achievements of UDC student-athletes during the 2007-08 academic year. The Lady Firebirds Basketball Team was recognized for their outstanding performance on the basketball court, which resulted in them winning the Independent Schools Women’s National Basketball Championship in February of this year.

Recognition was also given to Lillian McGill, a freshman member of the Team, who received two national awards as a result of her performance on the court. McGill was named the 2008 Independents Collegiate Athletic Association Freshman of the Year, and was also named to the Women’s Division II Bulletin’s 2008 All-Freshman Team. She was among 10 national NCAA Division II players selected for this award.

Also receiving recognition was UDC Men’s Basketball senior player Willie Shaw, who was named to the 2007-08 All-ICAA (Independents Collegiate Athletics Association) Division II Men’s Basketball First Team. He finished his two year UDC collegiate playing career with 1,284 minutes of play averaging 28.4 per game; 383 rebounds (8.7 avg.); 32 assists; 39 blocks; 24 steals and 666 points ( 15.1 avg.). Shaw was ranked 128th in points scored per game, 6th in field goal percentage, and 83rd in rebounds among NCAA Division II schools for the 2007-08 season.

The Board presented the student-athletes resolutions that recognized and praised them for their achievements. Each student-athlete also received a special gift. Head Women’s Basketball Coach Lester L. Butler, Jr., was also recognized for having been named the 2008 ICAA Coach of the Year.