Senior trio makes huge impact on Northwestern State’s resurgence

NATCHITOCHES, La. (WNTZ) – Three Northwestern State seniors, Sharna Ayres, Jasmin Dixon, and Nia Hardison, have exemplified dedication and perseverance throughout their collegiate careers. Now, they stand on the verge of securing the program’s first winning season in nearly a decade.

The trio, who have been with the Demons the longest, will take the court at Prather Coliseum for the final time Wednesday as Northwestern State hosts East Texas A&M in the regular-season finale. Tip-off is set for 6:30 p.m., with the game airing on ESPN+.

The senior class, which also includes Mya Blake and Skye Miller, will be honored prior to the game. A victory would solidify a winning record for the Demons heading into the Southland Conference (SLC) Tournament, which begins Monday in Lake Charles.

Head coach Anna Nimz praised Ayres and Dixon for their leadership and commitment to the program’s resurgence. “They came in after a 1-19 season, trusted the process, and have worked hard to improve. They are the first players I’ve had for three and now four years, which is rare in this era of college basketball. I’m incredibly grateful for their leadership and consistency,” Nimz said.

Dixon, a dominant defensive presence, has played a crucial role in the Demons’ transformation. She ranks second in the SLC with 42 blocks this season and sits fifth in conference play with 27 rejections. A transfer from Prairie View A&M, Dixon has consistently been among the league’s top shot blockers, amassing 144 career blocks—fifth in program history.

Hardison, a defensive stalwart, has played a key role in holding opponents to just 58.9 points per game during SLC play, the third-best mark in the league. She has been instrumental in Northwestern State’s national ranking of fifth in three-point percentage defense, limiting opponents to just 26% from beyond the arc.

“Nia has a tough job. It doesn’t always show up in the stat sheet, but she consistently defends the opposing team’s top player,” Nimz said. “She’s a fighter and a key piece of what we do defensively.”

Offensively, Ayres has been a prolific three-point shooter throughout her career. She has connected on 194 three-pointers, ranking fourth in program history, and is on the brink of becoming just the fourth Demon to reach 200 career triples. With a strong showing in the SLC Tournament, she could also join the program’s prestigious 1,000-point club, currently sitting at 915 points with Northwestern State and 919 overall.

The senior group’s contributions have been vital to the program’s resurgence. With one last home game before heading to Lake Charles for the SLC Tournament, the Demons have an opportunity to cement their place in school history.

Northwestern State opens tournament play Monday against Texas A&M-Corpus Christi.