The ULM women's basketball program has had numerous shining moments spanning its more than 40 seasons. ULMWarhawks.com will spotlight various moments, individuals and teams as we recount the history of the program leading into the 2015-16 season.
Kea Jefferson, now Kea Martin, was a four-year letterwinner from 1987-91. She came to Monroe from Alexandria, La., and also set ULM records for various strength and conditioning workouts despite her 5'3 frame. She now works at Cleco Corporation, a public utility holding company in Pineville.
You played under two coaches at ULM, including the legendary Linda Harper. What was your transition like?
For me, it was a pretty smooth transition because Coach [Roger] Stockton was already there assisting with Coach Harper, so I already had a good relationship with Coach Stockton. I did miss Harper because she was like a mother hen and could take care of us but Stockton was always there. He was a very solid assistant and the transition was not difficult.
What is your backstory for how you ended up at ULM?
I am from Alexandria, La. I attended basketball camp at the university about two or three years in a row, and that's what gained my interest at the time. I did the camp and they were in their prime with the NCAA Tournament and things of that nature. Lisa Ingram and Jocelyn Hill [and other standouts] were attending the university. When I was a sophomore and junior and high school they were still there. The years I did follow the school I was intrigued by what was going on at that time.
I would actually visit the university when I had a couple of friends at ULM who I would visit with Spring Fever and go to those types of events.
What was your favorite part of your undergrad years?
My favorite part was being on a family-oriented basketball team, whether it was helping with studies or if anybody needed something. We all came together as a family, especially during holidays when nobody else was on campus, and I would say as a unit the basketball team not only academically did those things but would also come together and enjoy each other.
How often have you been able to come back to Monroe for games or visits?
I used to come more often. I didn't make it last year or the year before but I have a brother-in-law in lives in Monroe, so I would try to make a couple of games a season. His name is Terry Martin, who used to be a basketball player there as well [1980-1984] a few years before my career.
Did that include the 40th year reunion?
I had an event scheduled at the same time and was unfortunately unable to make it. The last time I was out there was Coach Harper's funeral and I saw a lot of old teammates there. She was awesome.
