Bio

ShaNiya Lester enters her first season as an assistant coach for the Koalas women’s basketball program under Coach Toland for the 2025–26 season.

A native of Marion, South Carolina, and graduate of North Mecklenburg High School, Lester earned her bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sport Science from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke in 2020. She later served as a graduate assistant with the UNCP women’s basketball program from 2023–2025 while completing her master’s degree in Sports Administration. In addition, she is a certified personal trainer and the CEO and Founder of Niya’s Push Sports & Fitness Training.

As a student-athlete, Lester played guard for UNC Pembroke at the NCAA Division II level from 2018–2020. Before joining the Braves, she spent two standout seasons at Catawba Valley Community College, where she earned NJCAA All-America honors, two All-Region selections, and back-to-back team MVP awards. During her sophomore campaign, she started all 32 games and averaged 20.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.2 steals per game.

Lester brings a strong commitment to player development, discipline, and holistic growth on and off the court. She values building genuine relationships, fostering confidence in young women, and creating a competitive yet supportive team culture. Her passion for mentorship and development aligns with the Koalas’ mission of preparing student-athletes for success in sport and in life.

“I’m excited and grateful to be part of the Koalas program,” Lester said. “I’m looking forward to helping our players grow both as athletes and individuals while continuing to build a winning culture here at Columbia College.”