A record-setting run for the Skyhawk women’s basketball program continued in 2023-24 as UT Martin qualified for the postseason for the 10th time in the last 14 seasons, receiving the Ohio Valley Conference’s automatic bid into the NCAA Tournament.
The Skyhawks overcame a slew of injuries – seven of which were season-ending – to finish 11-7 in league play, which tied for second in the standings. Since regular-season champion Southern Indiana was ineligible because of NCAA reclassification rules, UT Martin earned the right to represent the league after a victory over Little Rock in the OVC Championship tournament semifinals. It marked the Skyhawks’ fifth all-time appearance in the NCAA Tournament and first since 2014.
UTM traveled to Iowa City, Iowa, to take on Patriot League champion Holy Cross as part of the “First Four” portion of the NCAA Tournament bracket. The Skyhawks fell 72-45 but gained invaluable experience, as nine of the 10 players who competed in that game were underclassmen.
Under four-time OVC Coach of the Year Kevin McMillan, UT Martin has made the NCAA Tournament in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2024. The Skyhawks additionally have appeared in the Women’s NIT in 2015, 2016, 2018 and 2021 while also qualifying in 2020 before the event was canceled.
