A Strategic Transfer for the Lady Buffs
West Texas A&M announced that Zarai Lewis, a standout wing from New Mexico Junior College, will join the program for the 2026‑27 campaign. Coach Prock emphasized Lewis's length, athleticism and defensive instincts, noting that her ability to guard multiple positions and rebound effectively should bolster the team's perimeter defense.
Lewis arrives after a productive two‑year stint with the Thunderbirds, during which she helped the squad to a 27‑7 record and a appearance in the NJCAA National Title Game. She averaged 8.2 points per game while shooting 34.2% from three‑point range, earning All‑Conference honors and a spot on the NJCAA National All‑Tournament Team.
High School Roots and Academic Plans
A native of Clovis, New Mexico, Lewis was a three‑time All‑District selection at Clovis High School and scored over 1,000 career points before graduating. She is the daughter of Carlton and Sarah Lewis and has three siblings: Darrell, Taevyn and Langdon. At West Texas A&M she plans to major in Health Science.
Austin Mefford, head coach at New Mexico Junior College, praised Lewis's experience, size and versatility, expressing confidence that she will thrive in the competitive environment of the Lone Star Conference. Mefford highlighted her character and work ethic as qualities that align with the university's athletic standards.
Implications for the Program
The addition of Lewis is expected to deepen the Lady Buffs' roster ahead of the upcoming season, providing a blend of defensive tenacity and shooting capability. Coach Prock indicated that her versatility will allow the team to experiment with multiple lineups, potentially increasing depth and resilience as the schedule unfolds.