Florida State Women’s Basketball Secures Pania Davis from New Mexico Junior College
The Florida State Women’s basketball team has made another significant move in recruiting as they gear up for the 2024-25 season while also planning for the future. The Seminoles have successfully brought in transfer forward Pania Davis from New Mexico Junior College.
The recruitment of a center was a top priority for head coach Brooke Wyckoff and her staff, especially in the competitive ACC, where a strong interior presence is crucial. They secured a standout in Australian native Pania Davis, who stands at 6’6″ and brings a level of talent that could elevate the team.
Davis is a highly promising player who made a name for herself in Australia before continuing her success at New Mexico Junior College. Expectations were high for Davis as she entered her freshman year, and she quickly adapted to the college game, thanks to her early exposure to high-level competition.
At 6’6″, Davis is versatile on the court. Defensively, she excels as a rim protector with sharp instincts, effectively reading the opposing team’s offense. Her communication is key on defense, helping her teammates stay aware and focused. New Mexico relied on Davis’ defensive prowess to limit easy inside opportunities, and her impact was evident throughout the season. Offensively, Davis is a strategic player who favors high-percentage shots, whether it’s dominating under the basket or stepping out for mid-range jumpers. Her underrated footwork gives her a significant edge against defenders, enabling her to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Over two seasons at New Mexico, Davis was instrumental in the Thunder Birds’ success. They had an outstanding 2023-24 season, finishing with a 27-7 record and a 13-1 mark in the WJCAC. As a freshman, Davis averaged 13.6 points, 10 rebounds, and three blocks per game, with standout performances including six games with 20+ points and 10 games with 13 or more rebounds. Her contributions earned her accolades such as WJCAC Freshman of the Year and a spot on the NJCAA All-Tournament Team.
For JUCO athletes, the goal is to attract attention from top-tier schools by proving their ability to compete at a high level. Davis caught the eye of several programs, including UConn and Virginia Tech, but ultimately chose Florida State. She believed in coach Wyckoff’s ability to help her develop as a player within a program with a long history of success.
Florida State fans will have to wait until the 2025-26 season to see Pania Davis in action, as she will spend one more year at New Mexico. However, this extra season will allow Davis to continue refining her skills on both ends of the floor. By the time she joins the Seminoles, she will be ready to make a significant impact on the team’s success.
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