University of North Carolina Athletics
UNC Courtney Banghart announced Tuesday that Laila Hull and Ciera Toomey will redshirt in 2023-24.
Photo by: Jeffrey A. Camarati
Two WBB Freshmen To Redshirt In 2023-24
October 10, 2023 | Women's Basketball
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – Two members of UNC's highly-touted freshman class will redshirt the 2023-24 season, coach Courtney Banghart announced Tuesday. Laila Hull and Ciera Toomey will not play this year while continuing to rehabilitate high school injuries. Both players underwent surgery over the summer as part of their continued rehabilitation, and by taking a redshirt year, each will retain four full years of playing time.
"When any player that you are excited to coach redshirts, there is obviously an element of disappointment as their process is a bit delayed," Banghart said. "But this decision also means that they get a year to rehab, build strength, and better prepare for the collegiate game, so in many ways it's a win. I've already been really inspired by the work ethic and dedication of both Ciera and Laila and am thrilled with their decision to get four full years with us on the court. I know we will continue to get their best as they work hard to return even stronger."
Hull, a wing from Zionsville, Ind., was Indiana's Miss Basketball and Gatorade Player of the Year in 2023. She averaged 22.4 points per game as a senior and finished her high school career as Zionsville High's all-time scoring leader.
Toomey, a forward from Dunmore, Pa., was named Pennsylvania's Miss Basketball as a senior, when she helped Dunmore to the 2023 state title. She was ranked as high as No. 3 among the players in this year's freshman class but missed most of her senior year with a torn ACL.
The Tar Heels, who have a total roster of 15 players, open the season on Nov. 8 with a home game against Gardner-Webb. For the full schedule, click here.
"When any player that you are excited to coach redshirts, there is obviously an element of disappointment as their process is a bit delayed," Banghart said. "But this decision also means that they get a year to rehab, build strength, and better prepare for the collegiate game, so in many ways it's a win. I've already been really inspired by the work ethic and dedication of both Ciera and Laila and am thrilled with their decision to get four full years with us on the court. I know we will continue to get their best as they work hard to return even stronger."
Hull, a wing from Zionsville, Ind., was Indiana's Miss Basketball and Gatorade Player of the Year in 2023. She averaged 22.4 points per game as a senior and finished her high school career as Zionsville High's all-time scoring leader.
Toomey, a forward from Dunmore, Pa., was named Pennsylvania's Miss Basketball as a senior, when she helped Dunmore to the 2023 state title. She was ranked as high as No. 3 among the players in this year's freshman class but missed most of her senior year with a torn ACL.
The Tar Heels, who have a total roster of 15 players, open the season on Nov. 8 with a home game against Gardner-Webb. For the full schedule, click here.
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