Full Breakdown
Natasha Howard's Jersey Retirement: A Celebration of a Stellar Career
11/17/2025, 1:59:43 PM
Natasha Howard's Impact at Florida State University
Natasha Howard, a prominent figure in Florida State University (FSU) women's basketball, had her jersey retired on November 16, 2025, during a game against the Indiana Hoosiers at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center. Howard's collegiate career spanned from 2011 to 2014, during which she became one of the most decorated players in the program's history. She was the first Seminole to surpass 1,000 points and 1,000 rebounds, earning accolades such as three-time All-ACC selections and two-time All-ACC Defensive Team honors.
Howard's journey began in Toledo, Ohio, where she joined FSU and quickly established herself as a versatile player. Under head coach Sue Semrau, she led the Seminoles to multiple winning seasons, showcasing her ability to play various positions and excel in both scoring and defense. In her freshman year, Howard averaged 10.6 points and 6.6 rebounds, earning a spot on the ACC All-Freshman team and helping the team reach the NCAA Tournament.
A Stellar College Career
Howard's performance continued to improve throughout her college years. In her junior season, she averaged 12.7 points and 7.5 rebounds, leading the Seminoles back into the NCAA Tournament. Her senior year was particularly notable, as she averaged a career-high 20.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game. Despite the team's struggles in the NCAA Tournament, Howard's contributions were instrumental in securing another winning season for FSU.
After her successful college career, Howard was drafted by the Indiana Fever in 2014 and has since become a three-time WNBA Champion and two-time All-Star. Her professional achievements further solidified her legacy as one of the best players to come out of FSU.
The Game Against Indiana
The jersey retirement ceremony coincided with FSU's game against Indiana, which ended in a narrow 76-72 loss for the Seminoles. The team played without their top scorer, Sole Williams, who was sidelined due to injury. Despite the defeat, head coach Brooke Wyckoff praised the team's effort, highlighting their competitive spirit throughout the game. Senior guard Sydney Bowles led the Seminoles with 19 points, while the team struggled with shooting efficiency, making only 25 of 63 attempts.
Official Statements & Responses
Following the game, Wyckoff expressed pride in her team's performance, stating, "You can see it. I would take that team that was out there, our team, any day of the week." The game served as a tribute to Howard's contributions to the program, emphasizing her role in elevating FSU women's basketball.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It’s well deserved that she’s honored by the school by having her jersey hanging in the rafters of the Donald L.” — Source not specified.
- “Howard displayed several performances and broke records to place her name next to Sue Galkantas, Brooke Wyckoff, and other great Florida State players.” — Source not specified.
What's Next for FSU Basketball
Looking ahead, the Seminoles will face their in-state rival, the Florida Gators, on November 20, 2025, followed by a matchup against Illinois on November 23, 2025. These games will be crucial as the team aims to build on their early season performance and honor Howard's legacy through continued success on the court.
