WSSU's Triumphant Climb to the CIAA Crown: A Story of Faith, Perseverance, and HBCU Pride

The 2025-2026 season will forever be etched in the history books of Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) as the year the Rams women's basketball team captured their first-ever CIAA championship. This remarkable achievement not only sent shockwaves through the HBCU community but also inspired a deep sense of hope and pride among WSSU alumni and supporters.

The road to this historic moment was paved with challenges, determination, and a deep-rooted belief in the power of faith. When longtime head coach L'Tona Lamont announced her retirement, the Rams were facing an uncertain future. However, the university found the perfect leader to steer the team towards greatness in the form of Tierra Terry, a WSSU alumna who had been honing her coaching skills at Virginia Union University.

The 2025-2026 season began with modest expectations, as the Rams were coming off a seven-win campaign the previous year. However, under Terry's guidance, the team quickly dispelled any doubts, rattling off an eight-game winning streak that shattered program records. The Rams' relentless pursuit of excellence and their unwavering faith became the driving force behind their historic run.

As the wins piled up, the WSSU community rallied behind their team, with former greats like Sharon Holloway Tanner returning to witness the program's transformation.

"We are a God fearing program," said WSSU assistant coach Jessica Freeman, encapsulating the deep spiritual connection that fueled the team's journey.

The championship game against Fayetteville State was a true testament to the Rams' resilience. Just days before the matchup, the team had to navigate the loss of a beloved WSSU supporter – the author's own grandmother. Yet, in a poignant display of perseverance, the Rams emerged victorious, bringing joy and closure in a moment of grief.

The significance of this championship extends far beyond the court. It represents the realization of a long-held dream for the WSSU community, filling a void that had existed in the university's history. This historic triumph not only showcases the talent and dedication of the Rams' players and coaches but also highlights the power of HBCU pride and the transformative impact of faith-driven leadership.