Chesapeake College sophomore guard La’Shyra Williams and freshman backcourt running mate Janice Ladson were both named third-team NJCAA Division II all-Americans in women’s basketball.

The 5-foot-3 Ladson averaged 24.1 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.1 assists for the Skipjacks.  Williams scored 23.1 points per game while averaging 8.1 rebounds and 4.5 assists.  Ladson and the 5-6 Williams were second and third, respectively, in the state in scoring.

“I was surprised.  I didn’t expect to be selected – it’s a great honor,” Williams said of her inclusion on the all-American squad.

“I was speechless, honestly,” said Ladson.  “I feel as though it’s a very huge accomplishment, especially just being a freshman.”

Ladson – a Woodbridge, Va., resident who played her high school basketball at Riverdale Baptist in Upper Marlboro, Md. – and Williams are the first Chesapeake College teammates in any sport to be named all-Americans in the same season.  They were the only Maryland and Region XX players on the Division II all-American squad.

“It’s good to have two people from Chesapeake make it,” said Williams, who played her high school basketball at Seaford (Del.) High.

“I’m excited for them.  It’s a huge honor,” said Chesapeake head coach Gwen Barnes.  “They’re both very deserving.

“La’Shyra shoots well, is an excellent ball handler, a phenomenal rebounder . . . the list goes on and on,” said Barnes.  “Janice is quick and a strong defensive player.  We really needed her speed and defensive ability.  I couldn’t be more proud of them.”

While Williams and Ladson excelled, an injury riddled Chesapeake squad finished 9-15 and saw its string of four consecutive NJCAA Division II Region XX championships end.

Williams is currently undecided on where she will continue her education and basketball career next school year.  Ladson said she will be back to lead what she expects to be a Skipjack renaissance.

“We’re going to come back hungry,” said Ladson, “and we’re going to be way better.”