By Lauren Raziano, Copy Editor/Web Editor
Head Coach Heather Vulin announced to a packed Draddy Gymnasium that Dee Dee Davis was recently selected as Preseason Player of the Year on Thursday night. The crowd erupted in the sixth borough’s popular “Dee Dee Davis” chant. She was also named one of three unanimous First Team All-MAAC selections.
“This announcement is almost everything I have ever worked for. I say almost because the real deal will only be sealed if I can pull this off in March. I know with my teammates by my side, that goal is possible,” Davis wrote to the Quadrangle in an email.
From being a standout player from Harry S. Truman High School in the Bronx, and then named a MAAC All-Rookie Team honoree during her first year on the Jaspers, Davis has continued to be a key player for the women’s basketball team.
Davis’ 2021-22 season statistics include her as the second-leading scorer in the conference, scoring 18 points per game. Her other 2021-2022 statistics included 4.5 rebounds and 3.2 assists per contest. Dee-Dee is also a part of Manhattan College’s 1,000 point club after scoring her 1,000 point last season that helped the Jaspers score against Canisius in the Quarterfinals of the MAAC Championship.
“Dee Dee being picked preseason POY is an incredible honor because our league has so many tremendous players. Dee Dee’s work ethic and commitment to her game is elite,” said head coach Heather Vulin. “Most people only get to see the 30+ games, but our staff and team get all the practices, and when Dee Dee is fourth quarter Dee Dee we are never surprised. We just know she is built differently and thrives off the pressure. I’m truly proud of her for the recognition but our focus is always on team goals and we are very blessed to have Dee Dee and Brazil leading the way for us.”
Manhattan women’s basketball co-captain, Brazil Harvey-Carr, was slotted in on the preseason second-team after previously earning third-team honors last year.
Harvey-Carr earned 12.2 points per game and an average 6.9 boards per game for the 2021-2022 season. This will be Harvey-Carr’s second season with the Jaspers.
In the press release head coach Heather Vulin said she was happy Davis and Harvey-Carr were recognized by the MAAC for their talent.
“I think Dee Dee and Brazil are two of the most dynamic and exciting guards in the MAAC. I’m very happy they were recognized for their talent, but knowing both of them the only accolade they want is to hold the MAAC trophy in March,” said Vulin. “Their talent and leadership to our program is extremely valuable. Both players were voted captains by their teammates because not only are they respected but their teammates believe in their leadership and commitment to our program. I’m expecting a special year from both players.”
Overall, the Jasper team was selected to finish second in the preseason poll with a final point total of 112, with Quinnipiac earning the top spot.
The first women’s basketball game is Nov. 7 at Draddy Gymnasium against Wagner.
Editor’s Note: Caroline McCarthy contributed to reporting.