The Western Illinois women’s basketball team and Head Coach JD Gravina added the state of Illinois leading scorer Shelby Bowman to their 2024 signing class.
“Shelby is an elite scorer and all-around offensive player.” Gravina said, “Leading the state in scoring is an impressive feat, especially given that she was facing double and triple teams most nights. She can shoot from deep, or score in multiple ways around the basket.”
Bowman was a high school standout at West Central High School in Biggsville, IL. Playing for the Heat, Bowman saw her scoring numbers increase throughout her high school career. Bowman averaged 23.1 points per game as a sophomore, which increased to 28.5 her junior year before jumping to a state-leading 31.3 points in her senior season.
Bowman was more than just a scorer. She saw her number in rebounds, assists, and steals all increase through her years at the high school level, averaging career highs with 6.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 4 steals a game in her final season.
“Shelby is also a very good passer, which will really show as she moves up to the college level. There is nothing better than getting a good, local player who is also a great person and student.” Gravina added.
Bowman ended her high school career with over 2,500 points and earned multiple high school accolades, including being named to the Associated Press All-State First Team.
***Courtesy of Western Illinois University***
