On the court, Selma University’s Marquita McMurray is a force to be reckoned with. She is no different off the court.

Recently, her efforts in the classroom were recognized when she was chosen as an Academic All-American by the USCAA.

The junior guard, who is originally from Anniston, was a significant contributor who maintained a 3.5 grade point average. She said she felt it is her responsibility as an upperclassman to set a good example.

“Being a captain and a leader I try to tell the younger players that the way they practice is how they are going to play in the games,” she said. “I tell them one day you freshmen and sophomores are going to be juniors and seniors and you will have to take the lead. You have to prepare now.”

Though she is focused on the court, McMurray said she is even more locked in during classes because she knows basketball is just a tool to help her move on to bigger and better things.

“I try to remember that I am here to get an education. It’s great to be able to play basketball and get an education at the same time.”

McMurray, who is majoring in biology and physical education, said she plans to attend graduate school when she is done at Selma University.

“I want to keep going,” she said. “I don’t want to stop with the undergraduate.”

McMurray started in 19 games this season and led the Lady Bulldogs in her first season in points with 17.5 per-game, 70 assists, 55 steals, 95 field goals made and 123 of 165 free throws made.

She scored a season high 27 points against Oakwood College on Feb. 14, had seven rebounds twice, and 12 assists against Tougaloo College on Nov. 20. The Lady Bulldogs were 11-11 this season and finished the season ranked 14th in the USCAA national poll.

McMurray, who has a 3.8 overall grade point average, also serves as a tutor for the Bulldogs baseball team.