USF women’s basketball player makes history
For the first time ever, a USF women’s basketball player was awarded American Athletic Conference (AAC)’s defensive player of the year.
The recipient was graduate guard Mama Dembele, who dominated the season with her quick hands and tough defense and led the conference with 2.5 steals per game.
Dembele said that although it’s always nice to get awards, she credited her success to teamwork.
“I think it translates into the team as well, how they trust you, how they just let me pressure the ball and be out there and be myself,” Dembele said. “I really appreciate that.”
Senior forward L’or Mputu also received a nomination as AAC’s most improved player, according to USF.
Dembele’s impact goes beyond defense.
She is ranked twenty-second nationally with 5.5 assists per game, creating scoring opportunities that have been crucial to the university’s success.
Coach Jose Fernandez emphasized Dembele’s value as a playmaker and said the award was “well deserved.”
“She’s just so active, she gives the set to her possessions, with getting her hands on deflections and creating steals,” Fernandez said. “I’m really happy for her.”
Dembele said it was helpful to have a break before the regular season.
“Sometimes it’s easy to lose focus when you lose a couple games so it was nice to just regroup and go back to ourselves,” she said.
Fernandez agreed that the time off was needed and said he is looking forward to individual workouts and practices.
The extra time to get into a training room and take care of herself was important.
“Also, getting some extra sleep, we also appreciate that,” she said. “Just having these days to take care of ourselves is really beneficial.”
Reporter: Luana Martins