UMKC Women's Basketball Selected to NCAA Advancement Program

The UMKC women’s basketball program was recently selected by the NCAA to participate in a mentorship program aimed at increasing interest in women’s college basketball.

Last month, the NCAA invited Division I members to apply to participate in the Women’s Basketball Advancement Program, a pilot initiative that matches schools with professional marketing experts for mentorship and assistance in increasing attendance and improving the overall fan experience. Earlier this week, UMKC was among thirty schools, including major programs Ohio State, Baylor, Florida State and UCLA, chosen by the NCAA to participate in the program’s first year.

A group of advisers will work with schools to help them evaluate their current marketing programs including social media, ticket sales, advertising and promotions, and will then will assist them in making program improvements. The advisors appointed to the program provide a wealth of experience and knowledge, including former Nevada head coach Jane Albright and former Detroit Pistons and Pepperdine University consultant Heather Collart.

More than 80 schools applied for the program, a solid indicator of the passion in schools across the country to take women’s college basketball to a higher level. NCAA Director of Championships and Alliances Tracie Hitz says there are lots people who are passionate about growing the game and could use additional tools and resources.

“We are extremely thankful and excited to be selected as one of only 30 teams across the country for the NCAA Women’s Basketball Advancement Program,” commented UMKC head coach Jacie Hoyt. “One of our biggest goals at UMKC is to grow a fan base that our program and community can be proud of. With the help and mentorship from this program I am confident we can make great strides in this area.”

The Roos claimed a 75-64 exhibition win over William Jewell on Saturday and will begin the 2017-18 regular season with a trip to Western Illinois on Friday, Nov. 10 at 7:30 p.m. CT. The contest will be broadcast on ESPN3 and will have Live Stats available.

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