Lowe's Senior CLASS Award - CIAA Division

Gamble is a member of the Johnson C. Smith University Dean’s List Scholar (2010-11) and maintained Honor Roll status at the University of Kentucky (2005-07). She is described by her head coach as a leader. “Her leadership comes through from her vast athletic experiences,” said Vanessa Taylor. “She is admired by teammates and she displays a true passion for the game. LaQwesha is consistently in preparation mode for the next opponent. As a motivator, she leads by example.” Gamble began her collegiate career at the University of Kentucky in 2005. After two seasons, Gamble dealt with the family issue of her grandmother having a stroke. She was forced to leave school and provide assistance to her family during the trying times. Gamble returned to the game after sitting out two seasons at Johnson C. Smith. She worked through her struggles of being in a new city, a new system, and being in a new conference. Gamble volunteered her time and energy with the JCSU women’s basketball team to assist with a Habitat for Humanity Charlotte project. JCSU basketball painted the interior of a new Habitat home for a deserving family. The student-athletes had an opportunity to make a difference in the Charlotte community while having an enjoyable time. This was also a great team-building exercise for the students-athletes and staff; and a great way to start the new school year. She also participated in the 2011 Antawn Jamison’s March Madness Championship for Right Moves for Youth as a volunteer. Right Moves for Youth concluded its tournament finals of the Annual Antawn Jamison’s March Madness Championship in March. Students from local elementary, middle and high schools competed in cheerleading, stepping and basketball competitions. Participation in March Madness is a reward for club members who show continuous improvement in attendance, behavior and academic performance. Gamble has also joined the team for the Beatties Ford Library reopening project and Operations Christmas Child. Gamble started in 28 of 30 games played during the 2010-11 season. She averaged a double-double of 11.5 points and 10.1 rebounds per game (both team-highs). Gamble shot 69.6 percent from the free throw line and 45.9 percent from the field. She earned All-CIAA honors, CIAA All-Tournament honors, and All-Region Tournament honors. She was named CIAA Newcomer of the Week for the week ending Jan. 29th.