Daelyn Craig Joins Nicholls State Women’s Basketball as Assistant Coach

Nicholls State University is set to welcome Daelyn Craig as an assistant coach for the women’s basketball team in the 2025-2026 season. This announcement comes from head coach Justin Payne, who expressed enthusiasm regarding Craig’s addition to the coaching staff.

A Familiar Face on the Network

Craig’s connection to Coach Payne is deep-rooted; she initially played under him at Georgia Southwestern and followed him to Nicholls, where she served as a valuable player for two seasons. During her time as a Colonel, Craig was noted for her consistent contributions, helping the team reach the Southland Conference Tournament in both years and securing playoff victories.

Transitioning Coaches

Craig will be taking over the role previously held by Jada Terry, who departed after two seasons on the staff. Coach Payne indicated earlier this summer the need for a new addition, culminating in the announcement of Craig’s hiring this week.

Building Team Culture

Payne expressed his excitement about Craig’s role, stating, “We couldn’t be more excited. It’s something that I think is going to bring great energy to our building. She’s on campus and is already making an impact for us.” The dynamic that Craig brings echoes Payne’s own tenacity as a player, as both are known for their grit and determination to elevate their teams.

Player-to-Coach Transition

Craig’s competitive spirit on the court was evident during her playing days, where she averaged slightly over four points per game and contributed significantly despite being an undersized post player. Her ability to make crucial hustle plays has set a standard for the type of toughness she is expected to instill in the team as a coach.

Aiming for Greater Heights

Under Coach Payne’s leadership, the Colonels have made significant strides, improving from the lower tiers of the Southland Conference standings to become solid contenders. The team’s objective remains clear: to win the Southland Conference and establish itself as a competitive force in women’s basketball.

Recruitment Strategy and Team Development

Despite losing several players to graduation and the NCAA transfer portal, the Colonels have made concerted efforts in their recruitment strategy, acquiring promising talents crucial for the upcoming season. Coach Payne is optimistic about this year’s recruiting class, which aims to bridge the gap with rival teams in the conference.

• The team aims to improve depth and talent to manage the season’s challenges.
• Previous injuries plagued the team during the last season, prompting the need for adaptable player roles.

“We have to be able to better handle adversity that happens during the season,” Payne remarked, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for unforeseen circumstances.

Looking Ahead

As the Colonels gear up for the 2025-2026 season, the addition of Daelyn Craig promises to bolster their competitiveness and drive. With a focus on tough, resilient play, Craig is poised to leave a significant mark on the development of the team going forward.