Matt Newby hopes his newest recruit can add some fine tuning to his roster as Lyric Swann glides into Newcastle.
The 5’ 5” guard started her collegiate career at the University of Maryland-Baltimore County back in 2019/20, the same college that her mother Karyn earned legendary status winning the East Conference Defensive Player of the Year in 1990/91.
Clearly Swann has picked up her mother’s traits in a strong University career that has earned her a first professional contract with the Eagles.
Swann’s second season at UMB was cut short by Covid-19 and she played the following season at JUCO Community College of Baltimore County Essex before returning to NCAA Division 1 with Atlantic Sun Conference University of North Florida.
In her final two years of eligibility in Florida, Swann averaged double figures before the former High School All-American nominee graduated this summer. She will attend the Newcastle University Business School and play BUCS as well aa top-flight Women’s Super League Basketball.
“I am really pleased to add further depth to our perimeter,” said coach Newby.
“Lyric is a very crafty and dynamic guard who has the ability to create her own shot in a number of ways as well as facilitate for her team mates.
“We are looking to create a stronger rhythm and tempo this season and she compliments the other members of the backcourt very well.
“I also feel she will have a significant impact defensively with a relentless nature and furthermore critically challenge the potential of her teammates.
”Her work-ethic industry and energy genuinely stood out in the recruitment process.
“Lyric will also be enrolling in the Newcastle University Business School to study her masters and represent the institution in BUCS competition, which bodes well as she was on the ASUN conference Academic Honour Roll in 2022/23 and 2023/24.”
“I look forward to welcoming her to the court for pre-season.”
Swann is confident that she has signed for the right club and is looking forward to bringing her skill set to Newcastle as she expressed her feelings on beginning life as a professional player.
“I am super excited to be a part of the Eagles family and contribute to the success of the organisation,” the guard added.
“This is the start of an amazing journey and I’m ready to give everything I got.
“Being an Eagle is about resilience, teamwork, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. I’m bringing passion, energy and a drive to win.
“I’m here to work hard, support my teammates and make an impact every time I step on the court.
“I will bring scoring on all three levels, great facilitation and lots of energy. I’m committed to doing whatever it takes to help the team succeed.”
Exciting words from an exciting addition to the Eagles women’s roster for 2024/25 with more to announce before the fans get to meet the team at the first-of-its-kind launch event on Friday 6 September at the Vertu Motors Arena.
