Panthers add guards Devon Lawlor and Alicia Bowering to championship roster
In a league driven by phenomenal guard play, the UPEI Panthers have added two more players hoping to leave their mark with the reigning AUS champions.
The decision to join UPEI was an easy one for Devon Lawlor, of Millcove, PEI. When she dons the green and white jersey for the first time, Lawlor will be a third-generation Panther.
“It’s kind of a tradition for my family,” Lawlor said. “My grandfather played for Saint Dunstan’s, and my aunt and uncle, and my parents all played for UPEI.”
Head coach Matt Gamblin had the chance to work with Lawlor in various camps since he came to PEI in 2018. He said adding her to the roster was an easy decision.
“I’ve been very impressed with her work-ethic and drive to get better. Devon has improved a lot throughout her high school career and will adjust well to the increased competition of the AUS and her teammates every day in practice.”
As Charlottetown Rural’s featured guard, Lawlor played a big part in helping the Raiders capture their third consecutive provincial title in mid-March. She was also named the tournament’s most valuable player.
Lawlor brings with her toughness and defensive focus, which is important to Gamblin, whose team is built on those fundamentals. She attacks the basket well and continues to improve her three-point stroke.
“It’s exciting to join a team with a lot of potential and to know I can practice among great players and work to become one of them,” said Lawlor.
Alicia Bowering, a native of Orangeville, Ontario, is another guard who could help complement all-stars Jenna Mae Ellsworth and Reese Baxendale. At 5-foot-8, Bowering brings size and athleticism to the backcourt, which has been a recipe for success for this team.
“Alicia has a strong work-ethic and a drive to improve, which are two of the most important qualities we look for in student-athletes,” Gamblin said. “She will be able to come in and use her athleticism to make an impact on the defensive end from Day One.”
Offensively, Bowering has the speed and agility to drive through defences, but also has the range to score from the three-point range.
“I’m an unselfish player that looks to penetrate and create plays and open looks for my teammates,” said the former Tri-County Soldier standout. “I also have the ability to step outside and shoot the three-ball.”
Coming from a small town herself, Bowering said she is excited to join a tight-knit community and a team coming off its first championship in 22 years.
“I feel very honoured to be joining such a high-level team that has so many tremendous accomplishments,” she said. “I am very excited for this new chapter—being given the opportunity to play on a championship team and to learn and grow both as a player and person.”
Go Panthers Go!
