Former KC women’s basketball player Saudia Roundtree inducted into NJCAA Hall of Fame

Former Kilgore College standout student-athlete Saudia Roundtree, a trailblazer in women's basketball, was inducted into the NJCAA Women's Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame last weekend during the NJCAA Women's National Championship Tournament in Lake Charles, La.

Roundtree is being recognized for her outstanding career at KC and her continued success at the collegiate, professional and international levels.

During her time at KC, Roundtree earned NJCAA All-America honors in 1992-93 and followed with NJCAA and WBCA All-America recognition in 1993-94. She was also named WBCA Junior College Player of the Year and helped lead the Lady Rangers to the 1993 national championship under head coach Evelyn Blalock.

She continued her career at the University of Georgia, where she became a two-time First Team All-American in 1995-96 and 1996-97. Roundtree earned WBCA First Team All-America honors and was named the 1997 Naismith College Player of the Year. She helped guide Georgia to Southeastern Conference championships and back-to-back Final Four appearances in 1996 and 1997, and received the ESPY Award for Best Female College Basketball Player in 1997.

Following her collegiate career, Roundtree played professionally in the American Basketball League for the Atlanta Glory and Nashville Noise, earning All-Star honors. She was also a member of the 1995 USA Basketball team that won a bronze medal. In addition, she became the first female athlete to have her own signature shoe with Reebok.

"We are incredibly proud of Saudia and all she has accomplished," said Dr. Courtney Pruitt, athletic director at KC. "Her journey is one of excellence, perseverance and breaking barriers, and she continues to be an inspiration for our Lady Rangers and Rangers. It was an honor to see her recognized on such a national stage. Roundtree's induction recognizes her impact at the junior college level, where her performance helped establish the foundation for a distinguished basketball career."

Pruitt said KC looks forward to welcoming Roundtree back to campus in the future to connect with current student-athletes and continue inspiring the next generation of Rangers.