Big South Preseason Player of the Year: Devon Brown

No excuses, rise above,” is not simply the motto of the women’s basketball team, but also motivation to redshirt sophomore Devon Brown.

“It motivates us to have no excuses, and if we do have excuses to rise above them,” Brown said.

The ‘no excuses’ attitude has helped Brown balance schoolwork and basketball.

“It’s hard when you first come to college to juggle schoolwork and being an athlete, but school comes first,” Brown said.

Raised in Waynesboro, Va., Brown is the daughter of Steve and Jennifer Brown. She has been playing basketball since she was seven and feels her family is the support system that helps her thrive.

“My parents are the greatest support system ever,” Brown said. “They come to every home game and try to make it to some away games that are close.”

Brown is the eldest of three children. Her younger sister is currently playing basketball as a college freshman and her younger brother plays college baseball and football. Brown is anxious for the excitement of the season, but anticipates particular events.

“I’m looking forward to playing Baylor,” Brown said. “They made it to the final four. They’re competition for us. It will be a battle, but it will be fun.”

The sports management major believes that the understanding and determination  her coaches possess contribute to the success of the team.

“They’re always there to help us when we do good things and bad things,” Brown said.  “Their main purpose is to help us get better.”

Versatility is a large attribute of Brown’s success. Previously at Waynesboro High School Devon Brown played every position and became the second leading girl’s high school basketball scorer in the history of Virginia. Brown’s dexterity and obvious passion for the sport makes her a prominent player on the Liberty University women’s basketball team.

Having received prestigious honors for her performance as a basketball player in high school, Brown proceeded to amaze at Liberty. In the Navy Classic and the Big South Championship Brown won MVP honors and was awarded the title of First Team All Conference last season.  Most recently, Brown was awarded the 2010-2011 Big South Conference women’s basketball preseason Player of the Year.

College is a learning experience and Brown is appreciative that she’s able to learn while doing something she loves.

“I’ve learned a lot since I’ve been here. A lot from the basketball aspect as well as in the classroom,” Brown said.

Brown is hoping to start this season and aid her team in winning the conference title.

“I feel really strong about us this year,” Brown said.