Shanika Hines Named NJCAA Division III All-American
MCC freshman Point Guard Shanika Hines was named to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division III All-American Second Team.
The former Manchester High standout, who was an Honorable Mention All-State in 2007, was second in the nation with 158 assists and also led MCC in minutes played and rebounds.
“Shanika was a big boost to the program,” third year MCC Head Coach Robert Turner said. “She’s versatile and does it all – rebounds, assists and can score.”
Hines was a key part of Manchester High School’s 28-0 LL State Championship team in 2005 as a sophomore and led the Cougars to an 18-0 start this past season, her first after making the transition to point guard from shooting guard and small forward.
“She never played point guard before but took on the responsibility, so for her to make these accomplishments at that position is huge,” Turner said.
“It was hard,” the 5’8” Hines said of changing positions the same year she made the jump from high school to college. “I was used to scoring and had to learn to dish the ball off and find open players. But I like the position.”
Hines was at a friend’s house when Turner called with the good news, and though elated with the achievement, she talked more about the disappointment of losing in the Region XXI final and not being able to play on the larger stage of the NCJAA National Tournament.
“It was disappointing because we beat Holyoke twice during the year,” the 19 year-old Hines said of the season-ending, 63-60 loss to Holyoke on March 2. “I’m working out now because I’m not going to let this happen again for the team. And I know (teammates) Katurah (Andrews) and Amanda (Morales) feel the same way.”
Hines was the only Region XXI player named to the NJCAA’s DIII first or second teams, while third team guard Tera Henson (Holyoke) was the only other Region XXI to receive mention.
John Reiser, Hines’ coach at Manchester High was proud to find out his former player was recognized for her accomplishments. “Success has always followed Shanika. She was very much an integral part of our 28-0 team. I’m proud of her for making the All-America team in only her first year of college ball,” Reiser said.
“She has a tremendous amount of ability and it’s satisfying to hear that she is taking advantage of her opportunities,” Reiser added, noting that several four-year schools have inquired about her availability after MCC.
It is Turner however, who has the good fortune to be prepare for another season with an All-American at point guard, and the coach likes the possibilities for the 2008-09 season. “She’s one of the best in the region and can be even better,” Turner said.
Hines scored over 1,000 points at Manchester High and was a five-time State Champion on an AAU team that ranked eighth in the nation in 2005. But MCC’s latest All-American is ready to put the memories of this past season – both good and bad – in the rear view mirror.
“We are going to come back harder to win the region and go on to the national tournament,” Hines said.
