D’Mya Tucker’s Triumphant Return Propels North Carolina A&T to Victory
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A remarkable comeback story unfolded Wednesday as North Carolina A&T graduate wing D’Mya Tucker returned to competition after a 20-month recovery from a devastating leg injury, leading the Aggies to a decisive 77-28 win over the Shaw Bears in their home opener. The victory improves A&T’s season record to 1-3, marking a powerful start to a new chapter for the program.
A Long Road Back to Club Corbett
on March 29, 2024, Tucker’s last appearance in Corbett Sports Center ended prematurely wiht a serious leg injury during a Women’s National Invitational Tournament (WNIT) game against Troy. Twenty months later, her return was nothing short of inspiring. “It was amazing,” Tucker shared,reflecting on the moment.”I’m really thankful I could come back here and put together one more season not just for our fans,but alumni and future prospective students to let them know this is a winning environment. I’m just more than grateful to be back.”
In her first game back at “Club Corbett,” tucker showcased her impact, contributing 12 points, seven rebounds, and three assists. A&T head coach Tarrell Robinson noted he was struck by the significance of seeing Tucker back on the court, recalling a similar feeling during the Aggies’ season debut at Texas Tech on November 3. Robinson expressed his confidence in Tucker, admitting he sometimes has to remind himself not to leave her on the floor for too long, a testament to her value to the team. she played 27 minutes on Wednesday, largely with the Aggies comfortably ahead.
Aggies Overcome Early Deficit,Dominate Shaw
The game didn’t begin as a rout. The Division II Shaw Bears initially held a 9-5 lead with 4:15 remaining in the first quarter. Though, a turnaround jumper from freshman forward anaya Karriem and two free throws from graduate guard Jordan brown tied the score. Tucker then drove to the basket for her first points in Corbett since her injury. A pivotal moment came with a transition 3-pointer from sophomore Eva Andrews, which ignited a important scoring run for A&T.
Andrews’ shot sparked an remarkable rally, culminating in a 24-2 run that extended into the second quarter. Sophomore Elliott Jessup ended the first quarter with a putback, and a layup by junior Paris Locke with 6 minutes left in the second quarter pushed the Aggies’ lead to 29-11. They expanded this advantage to 41-17 by halftime.
New and Returning Talent Shine for A&T
Tucker wasn’t the only Aggie to make a significant contribution. Fifth-year center Chaniya Clark recorded her 21st career double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds, while Locke added 14 points and four rebounds on efficient 6-for-11 shooting.
Freshman Crystal Hardy provided an immediate spark off the bench with her 3-point shooting, finishing with 12 points and two assists on 3-for-5 shooting from beyond the arc. Karriem also impressed in her debut, posting eight points and 10 rebounds. Mahogany Collins led the Bears with 13 rebounds and eight blocked shots in their season opener.
Looking Ahead
Despite the decisive victory, A&T’s veteran players recognize areas for betterment. “We have to understand our offense more,” Tucker explained. “We’re still learning. We’re still learning our roles. Defensively, our help side and our on-ball defense, we can improve on that. We do have some high spots, knowing some reads here and there and crashing the boards, things of that nature.”
The Aggies will have an chance to build on their momentum on sunday afternoon when they face the winston-Salem State Rams at Corbett Sports Center, with tip-off scheduled for 2 p.m. .
