Scott Nickerson
Elmore Autauga News
Following a successful two-year stint at Coastal Alabama Community College – North, former SEHS Mustang Ariel Gilchrist has signed to continue her basketball career at the University of Mobile. The Rams compete in the Southern States Athletic Conference of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).
“I chose the University of Mobile because I was really impressed by their basketball program and the sense of community on campus,” said Gilchrist. “The coaching staff made me feel welcome right away, and I believe Mobile offers the perfect environment for both academic and athletic growth. Their commitment to developing student athletes stood out to me during the recruiting process.”
In her sophomore season, Gilchrist averaged 10.3 points per game, along with 7.3 rebounds, 2.9 steals, and 2.9 assists per game. The week of December 11, 2025, she was named the Division 2 Player of the Week in the Alabama Community College Conference.
Gilchrist visited the University of Mobile in the spring and had a chance to tour the facility and meet some of her future teammates and coaches.
“The campus is beautiful, and I felt at home as soon as I arrived,” said Gilchrist.
The former Mustang credited University of Mobile Head Women’s Basketball Coach Sydney Westry as a major influence in her decision.
“Coach Sydney took the time to get to know me and my goals, and she shared her vision for the team’s future. She played a big role, showing me how I could fit into their system and contribute right away,” said Gilchrist.
Following two successful seasons in Coach Westry’s first two years leading the program, the Rams went just 10-20 this past season in the coach’s third season. Gilchrist hopes to help the team get back to its winning ways under Coach Westry.
“My main goal is to help the team win a conference championship and make a deep run in the postseason. Personally, I want to continue improving my skills, both offensively and defensively, and become a leader on and off the court. Academically, I aim to maintain a strong GPA and graduate on time,” said Gilchrist.
She plans to major in health science and pursue a career in nursing.
