A national celebrity and Southeastern sports alumni alike held the spotlight on the afternoon of Feb. 5. That day, Southeastern retired the host of ABC’s Good Morning America and former Lady Lion Robin Roberts’ jersey. Along with the jersey retirement, Southeastern also held the 2010-11 Women’s Basketball Alumni Day. The alumni ceremony was scheduled to be held during the halftime of the Lady Lions’ basketball game against Sam Houston State University’s Lady Bearkats. However, due to weather conditions, the Lady Bearkats were delayed in Texas and consequently, the time of the game was pushed back to 7:30 p.m. The alumni ceremony was held after the retirement of Roberts’ jersey and at the game’s halftime.

The day’s festivities began with the retirement of esteemed alumni Robin Roberts’ jersey at 3:00 p.m. Roberts was presented with a framed replica of her jersey for her to keep in remembrance of the special occasion. A banner with a mock up of her number 21 jersey was also unveiled during the ceremony.

“I thought the Saints’ winning the super bowl was a highlight,” said Roberts, “but this truly is my sports moment. To have your jersey hanging from the rafters is the highest honor and it’s a real privilege.”

Only 4 other athletes in Southeastern history have had their jersey number retired. Roberts, along with fellow Lady Lion’s player Queen Brumfield Nard, are the only two Southeastern Women’s Basketball players to have their jersey retired.

“I remember Queen; she was on a national championship team,” said Roberts. “And to know that my jersey is hanging up alongside of hers is amazing.”

During her address to the crowd, Roberts spoke very highly of Southeastern and was thankful to everyone who helped her accomplish her goals. She noted those who helped to make her dreams a reality, such as the Chauvin family who gave Roberts her first break into broadcasting.

“It is an honor to be a part of the Southeastern family and I continue to be proud to say that I am a Southeastern Louisiana University [Lady] Lion,” said Roberts.

Following the retirement ceremony was the presentation of the Women’s Basketball alumnus. Former Lady Lions from the past 37 years were in attendance. Members from the 1976-77 National Championship team, the All American Team and the Southeastern Athletic Hall of Fame as well as one member who was named Southeastern Alumnus of the Year were in attendance.

As the former Lady Lions were introduced, they were presented with special gifts courtesy of the Athletic Department. Although each woman was announced by the years they played, their individual achievements were announced as well. Each woman was recognized and honored for the work they have done in the past years, both on and off the court.

“It feels great to be back,” said National Championship Team member Shari Wronko Smith. “It’s a wonderful experience here and it’s nice to see all of the former players.”