This past weekend, in a packed Georgia State University gym, representing Union County College by way of the Dominican Republic, 5'09" SG Yamel Abreu participated in the 11th Annual NJCAA Women's Basketball Coaches Association All-Star Showcase. The event which lasted from July 27th through July 29th, was comprised of 40 selected student-athletes with every division of the NJCAA being represented.
The talented group not only received the opportunity to showcase their skills in front of four-year level coaches from across the country, but had the chance to become better players and hone their craft against elite competition. Coaches from top NCAA Division I, Division II and NAIA programs were in attendance.
Having been chosen as one of the forty rising sophomores to participate is an extreme honor. Her selection can be credited to her hard work and passionate play during her freshman campaign in which Yamel played a pivotal role in the lady Owls return to the National Tournament in 2018. She averaged 23 points, 7.5 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 steals per game, earning 1st Team All-Conference, 1st Team All Region and National Tourney "All Tournament Team" selections.
"My time was good, it was a new experience and it was fun meeting the other players," Yamel stated. "It was exciting because I want to play on the next level and to see the coaches there, it was like I was closer to my goal."
If her first season is any indication of what's to come, Yamel is poised to have a very successful sophomore campaign. "Yamel is one of those kids who are hard to replace!" Coach Marbely Montas added, "She started her first year at Union County College focused and determined to be the best player in our Region and that's exactly what she did. She is a leader on and off the court, and proved that during the All-Star Showcase in front of all the coaches who took the time to make it to the event. I can only imagine the type of player and student that she will be this upcoming season during her sophomore year and we are all excited to have her back for a second time!"
Congratulations Yamel!