The Hudson Valley Intercollegiate Athletic Conference announced its All-Conference teams on Sunday evening, February 18, and Berkeley College women's basketball sensation Ayana Ratliff earned the league's top billing, as she was voted as the conference's Player of the Year. Following the announcement, women's basketball Head Coach Alex Kuchar gave his thoughts.
"Ayana isn't just a tremendous offensive player, she is also an incredible defensive presence as well, and her versatility was invaluable for us during the 2017-2018 season," Kuchar said. "She exemplified heart, grit, and passion all year long, and the energy she brought with her to the court every game was unwavering. She was an excellent player and an equally tremendous teammate, and I couldn't be more proud of everything she accomplished this season – including earning this prestigious billing. We're looking forward to having her back next season for her senior campaign."
A four-time HVIAC Player of the Week, Ratliff scored in double figures in all 21 of the Knights' games this season. The Brooklyn, NY native led the conference in scoring as well, netting 27.4 points a clip and posting three games of 30 points or more against league opponents. She was also second in the Hudson Valley Intercollegiate Athletic Conference in total steals with 83. On the USCAA front, Ratliff led the Nation in scoring, while also placing fifth on the USCAA total steals list.
In seven of Berkeley's 21 contests this season (33 percent), the junior guard scored 33 points or more. She also netted 40 points or more on two occasions – with her season-high of 41 points coming in a December 13 game at Five Towns College. This past weekend – in Berkeley's HVIAC semifinal round game against the College of New Rochelle, Ratliff scored 40 while also grabbing 14 rebounds, as well.