LA MIRADA--- The Biola Women's Basketball team returned 11 Eagles and welcomed four newcomers to their 2022-23 roster, including three freshman and one sophomore transfer. 

"We're excited about the players we have returning for the 2022-23 season," exclaimed head coach Alan Nakamura. "They are a high character, tight-knit group who do a great job of representing the Lord and Biola, and really take care of each other!"

Nakamura continued, "We think the incoming recruits, who are coming from four states, will compliment them well. They will fill in some areas, and make us a deep and talented team. They all understand the commitment and teamwork necessary to contend for a title."
 
Biola's three incoming freshmen include: Jaci Bolden, Jamelia Coleman, and  Jessa Thurman.
 
Jaci Bolden / 5'7" Guard / Lawrenceville, Ga. / Greater Atlanta Christian School
Bolden prepped four varsity seasons at Greater Atlanta Christian where she helped her team make three State appearances where they were two-time runner ups and State Champions. While playing for Spartans, Bolden scored over 1,000 points and earned All-Region and All-State honors.

Nakamura's thoughts: "We were looking for an intelligent guard who can handle the ball, make great decisions, is a plus defender, and can keep teams honest with her scoring ability. Jaci fills all of those areas with a joyful spirit!"
 
Jamelia Coleman / 5'9" Guard / Las Vegas, Nev. / Clark High School
Coleman prepped four varsity seasons at Clark High School where she helped her team become the undefeated Conference Champions (10-0) and State Champions for the 2021-22 season. While at Clark, she garnered several accomplishments including Second Team All-Conference, First Team All-Conference, Second Team All-State, Winter Sports Female Athlete of the Year, and Distinguished Athlete of the Year.

Nakamura's thoughts: "Jamelia comes from a Nevada state championship program at Clark High School. She has good length and has experience playing one to four positions, so she will bring excellent versatility and is a play-maker at both ends of the floor."
 
Jessa Thurman / 6'2" Forward / Valley Glen, Calif. / Chaminade College Prep
Thurman prepped four varsity seasons at Chaminade College Prep  where she averaged 16 points, 12 rebounds and three and a half blocks per game. At Chaminade College Prep she received First Team All-League, Mission League Defensive Player of the Year, Team MVP, and was a team captain. 

Nakamura's thoughts: "It is difficult to find active, athletic, competitive post players, so we're thankful that we found one in Jessa. Biola is a great fit for her in every way, and it is going to be exciting to see her development."
 
The Eagles' lone transfer is sophomore Maya Whiteside coming from Division I Long Island University.

Maya Whiteside / 5'11" Forward / Denver, Colo. / Long Island Univ.
Whiteside played one season at Long Island University. Prior to joining the Sharks, Whiteside attended George Washington High School where she helped her team place sixth in State and qualify for the Elite 8. In high school, Whiteside was ranked the sixth-best player in Colorado and received honors such as McDonald's All American Nominee, four-time First Team All-League selection and was an All-State player. 
 
Nakamura's thoughts: "As with all of our incoming players, Maya appreciates, and has embraced the culture of Biola University, and the wonderful team chemistry we have in our program. She is another athletic versatile player, and her best basketball is ahead of her."

Nakamura concluded, "As a group this year's team has outstanding potential, and we are looking forward to having the whole team together!"
 
Biola opens up their 2022-23 season tomorrow, Saturday Nov. 4 with an exhibition contest against CSU Bakersfield at the Icardo Center. Tip off will begin at noon.