Toledo Holds First Official Practice for 2020-21

Senior Mariah Copeland and the Rockets conducted their first official team practice this afternoon in Savage Arena.

Photo by: Toledo Athletics

10/14/2020 3:30:00 PM | Women's Basketball

TOLEDO, Ohio – The Toledo women's basketball program conducted its first official team practice in Savage Arena on Wednesday.

"Today is another step in our journey as we begin official practice," three-time Mid-American Conference Coach of the Year Tricia Cullop said. "We now have 30 opportunities to learn, grow and improve before our first game. I love how competitive this group has been so far, and I can't wait to see what lies ahead."

The Rockets return eight letterwinners from last year's squad that finished strong by upsetting No. 1 seed Central Michigan in the MAC Tournament quarterfinals. Leading the way for Toledo in 2020-21 will be sophomore captains Quinesha Lockett, Mali Morgan-Elliott and Sophia Wiard. The Midnight Blue & Gold also has seniors Mariah Copeland and Tatyana Davis, junior Lexi Lance and sophomores Soleil Barnes and Jaela Johnson returning to the fold. In total, Toledo welcomes back 38.5 percent of its scoring, 34.1 percent of its rebounding, 37.0 percent of its assists, 37.3 percent of its blocks and 37.9 percent of its steals.

"I'm extremely excited to have my last first practice as a Rocket," said Copeland, a graduate of nearby Notre Dame Academy. "I think we are going to have a great team this year, and I'm ready to give my all this season before I officially graduate."

Added Davis, "I can't believe that this is my last first practice. Time has really flown by!"

Providing Toledo with additional depth in 2020-21 will be seven newcomers — junior college transfer Cassie Colon, redshirt freshman Yaniah Curry, along with freshmen Caily Bolser, Khera Goss, Halle Idowu, Sammi Mikonowicz and Mickayla Perdue.

The Rockets, whose non-league schedule will be announced in the near future, will play 20 MAC games this year for the first time, beginning on Dec. 30 vs. Kent State at home.