Academic Shootout to raise funds for Ladyjack basketball scholarships

Contributions are now being accepted for the annual Ladyjack Academic Shootout, an event that raises funds for summer school and fifth-year student scholarships for the Ladyjack basketball program.

The Academic Shootout occurs on Feb. 20 during the 6 p.m. game between the SFA Ladyjacks and Southeastern Louisiana University. Members of the Hoop Group Ladyjack basketball boosters will be working tables to accept donations and pledges at home basketball games at the William R. Johnson Coliseum leading up to the event day. Supporters also may contribute securely online at www.sfaalumni.com or in person at the Tracie D. Pearman Alumni Center on the SFA campus.

Since 2005, the Academic Shootout has raised nearly $30,000 for the Ladyjack basketball program.

Lee Ann Riley, Ladyjack basketball head coach, said the Academic Shootout has been a significant source of support for the women’s basketball program and credits the Hoop Group for its efforts in helping coordinate the event.

"I continue to be amazed by the generosity of our boosters, alumni and fans who have always supported our Academic Shootout,” Riley said. "The Academic Shootout is the one fundraiser we have for Ladyjack basketball. We emphasize the Academic Shootout due to the fact that it focuses on academics, the most important part of our program.

"Without the support we receive from this event, many of our players would not have the opportunity to attend summer school,” Riley said. "The opportunity to attend summer school has helped all of our players move toward their ultimate goal of graduating from our great university.”