Hurricanes to Honor Tamara James

CORAL GABLES, Fla. - University of Miami Director of Athletics Kirby Hocutt and head women's basketball coach Katie Meier have announced that former Hurricane great Tamara James will have her No. 2 jersey honored prior to the Miami's game against Morgan State on Dec. 30.

The honored jersey will be just the third women's jersey to hang from the rafters at the BankUnited Center - joining UM greats Maria Rivera (1984-88) and Frances Savage (1988-92).

"I am thrilled for Tamara," said Meier. "I have been waiting for this moment to recognize all that she did for the University of Miami. This is a great time to celebrate a local young lady that chose to stay at home and change the face of the University of Miami basketball program."

The selection of honored jersey recipients is determined by the Director of Athletics and the head basketball coach, in conjunction with an anonymous advisory committee. Criteria used in the selection process include athletic achievements at UM, commitment and loyalty to the continued success of the University and its athletic department and a personal commitment to courage and integrity.

James, the No. 8 overall pick by the Washington Mystics in 2006, was a 2005 and 2006 First Team All-ACC selection. She finished her UM playing career as the school's all-time leader in points (2,406), free throws made (520) and free throws attempted (664). She ranks among the top three all-time in nine different categories and is listed among the top five all-time in 13 different categories.

Meier added, "Tamara is a tremendous talent and competitor. My expectations are that all of South Florida will come out to celebrate this incredible young woman who did so much in representing the basketball program and the University."

James will be honored between the UM men's game against Pepperdine at 6 p.m. and the women's game that will start approximately 30 minutes later.

Tickets can be purchased in advance on HurricaneSports.com or by calling 1-800-GO CANES. The University announced that fans can purchase a discounted $5 ticket and receive admission for both games.



(hurricanesports.com)