MOBILE, Ala. – The 2015-16 campaign marked a significant turnaround for the University of South Alabama women's basketball program as it was plus-10 in the wins column from the previous year.  The Jaguars' turnaround was tied with Binghamton and Saint Louis for eight-best among Division I programs in the nation as released by the NCAA Tuesday morning.

After recording a 5-24 record during the '14-15 season, USA ended this past season with a 15-15 overall record – for a 9.5 games improved mark.  UNC-Asheville had the most improved mark of any Division I during the 2015-16 season, as the Bulldogs improved from a 9-22 record to a 26-7 record this season – a plus-16 games improved mark.

To determine the games improved number, the NCAA added the difference in victories between the two seasons to the difference in losses, then divide by two.  The final records also included the postseason.

South Alabama ended the regular season playing some of its best basketball, winning six of its final eight.

The Jaguars also ranked top 25 nationally in a few other categories.  South Alabama also finished ninth in the NCAA in field-goal percentage defense (.347) and tied for 11th with Butler and Omaha in blocks, averaging 5.8 per game.  USA's 174 blocks were 21st-most nationally.

USA also set school records in blocks, defensive field-goal percentage and defensive rebounds (820).

Sophomore Chyna Ellis ranked 22nd in the NCAA in blocks – fourth-most among sophomores nationally – with 2.73 per game.  Her 82 blocks this past season were 24th-most nationally and just four blocks shy of tying the program's single-season record.  Ellis' 82 blocks were as much or more than 93 Division I programs.

For more information about South Alabama athletics, check back with www.usajaguars.com, and follow the Jaguars at www.twitter.com/USAJaguarSports. Season tickets for all Jaguar athletic events can be purchased by calling (251) 461-1USA (1872).

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