Shay Ciezki Shines as Indiana Hoosiers Advance in NCAA Tournament
COLUMBIA, S.C. – For Indiana women’s basketball guard Shay Ciezki, the dream of playing in the NCAA Tournament felt like a distant aspiration for the first two years of her college career. However, this year, adorned in the cream and crimson of the Indiana Hoosiers, Ciezki finally reached the coveted stage, and she didn’t just participate – she thrived.
In a thrilling first-round matchup on Friday, Ciezki played a pivotal role in propelling the No. 9-seeded Hoosiers to a 76-68 victory over the No. 8 Utah Utes. The junior guard poured in 16 points, showcasing her offensive prowess and contributing significantly to Indiana’s triumph. The win marked a significant milestone for Ciezki, fulfilling a childhood dream and validating her decision to transfer to Indiana.
“It’s such a surreal moment,” Ciezki expressed with palpable excitement before Friday’s game. “When you’re a kid, you dream of playing in March, and the last two seasons I wasn’t able to get there.” Her journey to this point was not without its twists and turns, but her unwavering dedication and belief in her abilities ultimately led her to the grand stage of March Madness.
Ciezki’s path to Indiana began in Buffalo, N.Y., where she established herself as a standout player, earning the distinction of being a three-year captain in high school. However, her college career initially took her to Penn State. After her tenure there, Ciezki made the bold decision to transfer to Indiana during the last offseason, placing her trust in Hoosiers coach Teri Moren and embracing the opportunity to join a new team and a different basketball culture.
The decision proved to be a turning point for Ciezki. She quickly integrated into the Hoosiers’ system and became a vital component of their success during the regular season. Her scoring ability, particularly her proficiency from beyond the arc, added a new dimension to Indiana’s offense. Ciezki averaged 11.6 points per game while boasting an impressive 37.7% shooting percentage from 3-point range, solidifying her role as a key offensive weapon.
The impact of Ciezki’s transfer extended beyond the basketball court, as her mother, Lisa Ciezki, observed firsthand. "The whole culture is different (in Bloomington) than where she came from," Lisa Ciezki noted, emphasizing the welcoming and supportive environment that surrounded her daughter. "They just embrace women’s basketball so much."
The atmosphere surrounding the Indiana women’s basketball program in Bloomington is known for its fervent fanbase and unwavering support. The passionate crowds and the overall sense of community create an environment where players feel valued and empowered. This embrace, according to Lisa, has been instrumental in Shay’s growth and development as a player and as a person.
While Ciezki’s 16 points against Utah highlighted her offensive capabilities, her overall impact on the game transcended the stat sheet. Her relentless hustle, constant communication with teammates, and astute orchestration of the offense were equally crucial to Indiana’s success. She showcased her leadership qualities, guiding the team through critical moments and ensuring that everyone was on the same page.
Beyond her scoring contribution, Ciezki also contributed three assists and two rebounds, demonstrating her versatility and willingness to contribute in multiple facets of the game. Her all-around performance exemplified the type of player she has become – a complete and impactful presence on the court.
With the victory over Utah, Ciezki and the Hoosiers advance to the next round of the NCAA Tournament, where they will face a formidable challenge in the winner of the No. 1 South Carolina and No. 16 Tennessee Tech matchup. The game is scheduled for Sunday afternoon at Colonial Life Arena, setting the stage for another exciting chapter in Indiana’s March Madness journey.
Facing the potential of playing the undefeated and top-ranked South Carolina Gamecocks will be a daunting task. However, with Ciezki leading the charge, the Hoosiers will undoubtedly enter the game with unwavering confidence and a determination to compete at the highest level. They will rely on Ciezki’s scoring prowess, leadership, and overall impact to guide them through the challenges that lie ahead.
Shay Ciezki’s journey to the NCAA Tournament has been a testament to her perseverance, her belief in herself, and her willingness to embrace new opportunities. Her performance against Utah was a validation of her decision to transfer to Indiana and a glimpse of the potential that lies within her. As the Hoosiers continue their March Madness run, Ciezki will undoubtedly play a central role in their pursuit of success, inspiring fans and showcasing her talent on the national stage. The dream of playing in March has finally become a reality for Shay Ciezki, and she is determined to make the most of every moment.
