Basketball is more than just a game for Ericka Huggins. When Ericka Huggins steps onto the basketball court, she brings more than talent—she brings a story of resilience, growth, and purpose. As a sophomore forward at Delaware State University, she is proving that success in sports is more than just stats and accolades—it’s about courage, discipline, and the determination to push past life’s challenges.
Basketball has always been personal to Huggins. Growing up in Wilmington, Delaware, she developed her abilities playing against neighborhood kids, often going toe-to-toe with boys which made her improve her game. The real spark that ignited her passion came from her father, a constant source of support who encouraged her love for the sport. His passing became the ultimate test of her resilience—one that shaped her as both an athlete and a person.
“It was tough losing him,” she reflects. “He was my best friend. But basketball kept me going. It’s what he supported, and I knew I had to keep pushing.”
Losing her father was one of the hardest moments in her life, but Huggins found strength through basketball. To keep her mental health in check, she turns to journaling, self-reflection, and staying active—even during breaks. These habits allow her to maintain balance, especially when the pressures of being a student-athlete become overwhelming.
Transitioning from high school to college basketball wasn’t easy. The pace was faster, the competition tougher, and the expectations higher. At Delaware State University, Huggins learned quickly that success required both mental and physical adaptability. She had to embrace discomfort—something her coach, Jaz Turner, instilled in her from the start.
“You have to feel uncomfortable to be comfortable,” Coach Turner always told her—a mindset that has carried Huggins through her toughest moments on the court.
Winning Freshman of the Year accolade was her first major college accomplishment—a validation of her hard work and a stepping stone toward greater goals. But beyond the awards, what mattered most was the realization that she had more to prove—to herself, her team, and the community watching her grow.
Basketball is a team sport, and Huggins understands the importance of connection. Team bonding activities and one-on-one conversations have been crucial in strengthening relationships among players, making communication on the court seamless. She credits her teammates and coaches for helping her navigate the challenges of college basketball, reinforcing the importance of trust in achieving success.
The life of a student-athlete is demanding. Huggins starts her mornings in the locker room at 6:30 a.m., followed by rigorous practices, weightlifting, and study halls. Balancing two hours of study time daily ensures she maintains strong academic performance, proving that dedication is just as important in the classroom as it is on the court.
“There’s no free time,” she admits. “But I know this will all pay off. Basketball teaches discipline, and that discipline helps in every part of life.”
To Huggins, being a role model means leading by example. She knows that people look up to her, whether they see her winning games or simply persevering through challenges. She hopes her journey encourages younger female athletes to keep pushing forward, whether in sports, academics, or life.
“I want them to know that it’s possible,” she says. “No matter where you come from, no matter what obstacles you face—if you stay committed, you can achieve your dreams.”
Huggins is determined to leave her mark in the MEAC conference, continuing to elevate her career and push toward her long-term goals. Beyond basketball, she is focused on building a successful future, making money doing something she loves, and figuring out the next steps in her life and education.
Her advice for young women pursuing both sports and academics is simple: “Be true to yourself. Don’t let outside opinions shape your journey. Be patient, don’t procrastinate, and stay committed.”
Her journey is far from over, but what’s clear is that Huggins isn’t just playing for wins—she’s playing for growth, impact, and the legacy she wants to leave behind.