UNC Women’s Basketball: “McBuckets” ready to live up to name
Our UNC women’s basketball player previews continue with redshirt sophomore Kayla McPherson, a player who can be a lethal scoring threat.
As the sixth man of the UNC basketball program, BDaht, calls her, Kayla “McBuckets” McPherson is ready to make a major impact on the UNC women’s basketball program this season.
After missing her true freshman season while rehabbing from an injury suffered in high school, McPherson showed glimpses of what she’s capable of during her first season in uniform as a Tar Heel.
Heading into her redshirt sophomore season, McPherson appears to have a clean bill of health and is ready to take on a bigger role. What can we expect from “McBuckets” during the 2023-2024 season?
2022-2023 Season In Review
McPherson made her UNC women’s basketball debut, appearing in 13 games throughout the 2022-2023 season. After being forced to miss the first 20 games of the season, McPherson made her debut on January 29 against Clemson, as she scored eight points while connecting on three of her seven shot attempts.
Her first collegiate start came on February 12 against Boston College, as she set new career highs in points (22) and rebounds (6) in the victory. Due in large part to her efforts against Boston College, McPherson earned ACC Freshman of the Week honors.
What to Expect in 2023-2024
Last season, McPherson was limited in action as the UNC women’s basketball program eased her back onto the court.
It was the right move, given that McPherson didn’t play in a basketball game at any level for quite some time.
This season, the training wheels should be off, as McPherson is expected to be at full strength. If this is the case, expect to see her make a huge impact on Courtney Banghart’s squad.
McPherson brings so much energy to the mix, as she serves as a spark plug whenever she is on the floor. Not only does she bring the energy, but she also provides a viable scoring threat that could be very valuable in whatever role is carved out for her.
Bold Prediction
Whether she’s a starter or a reserve, expect to see a lot of Kayla McPherson this season.
She is the type of player that can thrive in any role. Given her ability, McPherson showed last season that she can be effective in any way that the UNC women’s basketball program needs her to be.
Don’t be surprised if she’s among the team’s top-five scoring options. “McBuckets” will certainly live up to her name!
Next. UNC Women's Basketball: ACC Media Day Recap. dark
Follow us @KeepingItHeel on X (formerly Twitter) and like our fan page on Facebook for continued coverage of UNC women’s basketball news, updates, and recruiting.