Freshman has a combined 16 rebounds in her last two games

COLLEGE STATION, Texas, December 31, 2007 – The North Carolina A&T women's basketball team almost came away with one of if not the biggest win in program history before 2007 ended. Although it came up short, the Aggies did come away with a consolation prize before the clock strikes midnight to begin 2008. Jalessa Sams' performance against No. 12 Texas A&M earned her MEAC Rookie of the Week honors.  

Jalessa Sams scored 11 points, grabbed seven rebounds, had two assists, a steal and a block in the Aggies upset bid against No. 12 Texas A&M Sunday afternoon. Sams compiled those numbers despite being in foul trouble most of the night and playing just 21 minutes.

“I’m glad Jalessa has something to show for her hard work,’’ said head coach Patricia Cage-Bibbs. “She plays so hard on both ends of the floor, and those are the types of players I like.  Yes, she can score. But she is a tremendous defensive player. Stats don’t always indicate how well someone plays defense. But Jalessa is a well-rounded player.”

Sams, who was recruited by some of the biggest schools in the country out New Castle, Pa., struggled offensively to start her collegiate career. But lately, the 5-foot-11 forward is starting to showcase the offensive skills that had schools around the country seeking her services.

In her last three games, she is averaging 11.7 points, 7.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 2.0 steals and is shooting .500 from the 3-point arc. Two of those games came against teams that were nationally-ranked to begin the season.

Sams and her mates return to action Wednesday, 8 p.m., eastern against No. 10 Baylor in Waco, Texas. The Aggies return to Cal Irvin-Don Corbett Court on January 12 to face Morgan State, which will be their first home conference game of the season.