TOPSHAM, Maine— Ainsley Bryant is this month’s female student-athlete spotlight, a freshman guard for the SeaWolves Women’s Basketball program.
A native Mainer from Topsham, Ainsley began playing basketball as a ripe second grader. Throughout her career, Ainsley was a four-year standout as a member of the varsity Mt. Ararat high school team and participated in a variety of travel teams—most recently for the Maine Maniacs of the AAU circuit. A four-year honor student and two-time basketball captain, Ainsley frequently volunteered at the Mid Coast Hunger Prevention Program and also gave her time to Little Dribblers basketball camps.
Ainsley lives in Spring Point Hall as a Liberal Studies major. “That’s one of the reasons why I chose to attend SMCC—I’m still unsure of my career path and SMCC allowed me to begin an affordable education. Coming from small town roots, I was looking for this type of community. The on-campus housing really aids in the experience and sharing it with other athletes makes it even better. Finally, the recruiting process to play basketball was the deciding factor. I want to thank the entire coaching staff for the opportunity I was given.”
At the moment, the Lady SeaWolves stand 14-2 overall and 7-2 in Yankee Small College Conference (YSCC) play. Ainsley has played in all 14 games and averages 3.3 PPG spanning 16.0 MIN/G. She explains, “It’s nice to be a part of a winning tradition and compete for a conference championship every year. The team is so close knit, we all rally behind one goal.”
“I love this athletics department—I feel comfortable here. I can go to anybody to talk about anything, basketball related or not. Coach B is a mentor, making me a better person.”
Ainsley has a brother and two younger step-siblings. She says, “Away from the athletics world, my brother is that person for me, another mentor. We’ve always been close—I can always go to him if I have a question or need advice. He’s a big part of my life.”
Earning a 3.85 GPA in the fall, Ainsley will continue with a full course load of 15 credits in the spring. Her plan is to finish her associate degree and transfer to a four-year institution to continue her education and playing career.
Quick Facts:
Celebrity crush? Michael B. Jordan
Netflix or Disney Plus? Disney Plus
Favorite flavor? Vanilla
Biggest fear? Snakes
One word to describe yourself? Determined
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