Jaleesa Sams, Head Women's Basketball Coach

Bio

Jaleesa Sams enters her first season as Head Women's Basketball Coach at Wilberforce University after establishing herself as one of the rising leaders in collegiate women's basketball.

Sams arrives in Wilberforce following a successful tenure at Rust College, where she engineered a remarkable turnaround of the Bearcats program. Taking over a roster with only six returning players, she rebuilt the team and led Rust to the 2026 HBCU Athletic Conference Tournament Championship and an appearance in the NAIA Women's Basketball National Tournament. Under her leadership, the Bearcats produced the conference Player of the Year, Tournament MVP, multiple all-conference selections, and established a culture centered on accountability, player development, and competitive excellence.

Prior to becoming a head coach, Sams spent more than seven years as an assistant coach at North Carolina A&T State University. During one of the most successful periods in program history, she helped guide the Aggies to four Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) regular-season championships, three MEAC Tournament titles, and six postseason appearances, including three NCAA Tournament berths and three Women's National Invitation Tournament appearances. She also played an integral role in five 20-win seasons while helping develop numerous all-conference performers and postseason award winners.

A standout student-athlete in her own right, Sams enjoyed a decorated playing career at North Carolina A&T. A two-time All-MEAC selection, she helped lead the Aggies to three consecutive MEAC regular-season championships, a conference tournament championship, and appearances in both the NCAA Tournament and WNIT. She remains among the program's all-time leaders in scoring and rebounding.

Sams earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Sport Science Fitness Management and a Master of Education from North Carolina A&T State University. Throughout her coaching career, she has been committed to academic excellence, player development, and preparing student-athletes for success beyond the basketball court. Her programs have achieved a 100 percent graduation rate, reflecting her dedication to developing well-rounded leaders.

As head coach at Wilberforce, Sams oversees all aspects of the Bulldogs women's basketball program, including recruiting, player development, academic success, and community engagement. Her vision is centered on building meaningful relationships, fostering a championship culture, and helping student-athletes reach their full potential both on and off the court.