Harmon-ee for UT Women’s Basketball

This current UT Spartans' women's basketball season has been a turbulent one strewn with injuries, forcing the team to work from a short bench. Because of this, Tampa has had an up-and-down season in the 2011-12 campaign.

Despite its struggles, senior forward Jaleesa Harmon has excelled on the court working alongside her teammates. So far this season Harmon has averaged a team-leading 13.3 points per game, along with 4.6 rebounds per game.

She has been depended on to be a force on offense and to install confidence into a young team.

A native of St. Louis, Harmon transferred to UT after her sophomore season. She praised the coaching done by current head women's basketball coach Tom Jessee.

Jaleesa explained how she prides herself on her post-play, and coach Jessee is a big part in expanding and refining her game. She also had praise for her coaches in the past, but emphasized the helpful instruction coach Jessee provided her.

Harmon believes because the team is smaller this season, they are able to work better as a team. She understands the importance of believing in her teammates.

"When I was at my junior college, some players would quit the team… but those that stuck around I would work hard to improve with."

This season, Harmon has been able to become closer to her teammates. Due to the Spartans working shorthanded, Jaleesa and her teammates have greatly depended on one another for support. Harmon is always willing and ready to offer support to her team.

As Jaleesa looks to the future, she wants to finish strong in her UT career. The Lady Spartans will now ahead to the 2012 Sunshine State Conference tournament, and Harmon knows the team is ready to handle the challenge.

As for the other Lady Spartans, they always know Jaleesa Harmon is available, whether for a layup or a helping hand.

Written by Sam Baldwin