Story by: Carlee Loyd

The UM Women’s basketball has shown the Gulf South Conference that they did not come to play around.

The team was ranked second in the East Division of the GSC on February 19. They were also one of the first teams to clinch a spot in the GSC Championship.

The Women’s basketball team was recently ranked #23 in the country. This is the first time the team has been nationally ranked in 25 years.

Head coach Gary Van Atta had it was a big honor. “They have come out in all this COVID season and committed to what we’re trying to do with testing and wondering if we are going to play or not. For them to go through all of that and then achieve recognition, it lets you know how dedicated they are and how hard they work.”

Montevallo sits #1 on the GSC charts for multiple stats, you can check them out on the GSC website.

Sophomore Marisa Snodgrass and Junior Savannah Lee are blessed to be apart of the nationally ranked team.

“It feels really good just to see your hard work getting noticed by others”, Marisa says, “Although we appreciate it, we’re not too focused on it because we are trying to finish the season strong.”

Lee says, “Though it is an extreme honor, we’re not done yet and we know we can do even greater things.”

Snodgrass is second in GSC leaders when it comes to assists and turnovers. She has also had a career game this season, breaking a records for most 3-pointers made in one game, making 7 of her 8 three-pointers.

“That was just a big blessing. I thank God for the opportunity” Marisa said.

The GSC Championship begins March 2. The women’s team will get to play the first round of the playoffs at home.