Shelton State Community College’s Nya Valentine Honored by Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in Knoxville, Tennessee

June 3, 2022 – Young female athletes often dream of being recognized for their contributions at the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (WBHOF).  Following an Alabama Community College Conference Championship and a trip to the National Junior College Athletic Association Division I National Tournament, a member of the Shelton State Lady Bucs has received this honor.

In recognition of her outstanding play for the 2021-22 season, Nya Valentine will be featured in the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame’s “Ring of Honor” in Knoxville, Tennessee.  The “Ring of Honor” is a display of jerseys celebrating the accomplishments of young athletes from across the nation.  Valentine’s jersey will be on display for a year.

Returning for the 2022-23 season as a sophomore player, Valentine’s presence on the floor is notable among her many talents.  A team leader, she is a primary advantage in executing head coach Madonna Thompson’s goals and plans.  Thompson is pleased to have her key player returning.

“We are so excited and proud of Nya for being selected to have her Shelton State jersey hang in the WBHOF,” said head women’s basketball coach Madonna Thompson.  “We will get the chance to see the jersey this fall as we all travel to a tournament in Tennessee.  To be selected is a huge honor and accomplishment to add to Nya’s resume, and I can’t wait to see what else she accomplishes while at Shelton State.”

“The Ring of Honor is an exhibit at the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame where we honor the nation’s top players at every level,” said Kelly Mathis, Director of Development for the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame. “To have your jersey on display at the Hall of Fame is a huge privilege and we are proud to celebrate the accomplishments of these young women.”

Currently, the Ring of Honor consists of over 100 jerseys hanging from the rafters of the back rotunda at the Hall of Fame. By acknowledging these young athletes, the Hall of Fame can fulfill their mission to “honor the past, celebrate the present, and promote the future” of women’s basketball. The display includes jerseys of the top high school and college players from the previous season. The Ring of Honor has displayed jerseys from some of the best players in the world including Candace Parker, Sue Bird, Kelsey Plum, Breanna Stewart, and Aja Wilson.

“Nya is joining the ranks of so many notable players, including SSCC alum Ciera Johnson,” said Cara Crosslin, athletic director at the College. “We see the best of our players on a daily basis, and we are thrilled that Nya’s talent caught the attention of the WBHOF.”

The Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, which opened in 1999, is the only facility of its kind, dedicated to all levels of women’s basketball.  For more information on the Ring of Honor or the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame visit www.wbhof.com or call 865.663.9000.

For more information about Shelton State Athletics, visit sheltonstate.edu/athletics.