Sophia Gregory, named the Horizon League Defensive Player of the Year for the 2025-26 season, has signed with the Liberty women’s basketball team for the 2026-27 academic year, according to an April 17 announcement.
Gregory’s addition is significant as she brings both defensive and offensive skills to Liberty. She will be joining four other newcomers this fall: incoming freshmen Peace Ashina, Trinity Holsinger, Kendyl Smith, and Amari Worsham.
Gregory played her first two collegiate seasons at Youngstown State University. In her sophomore year, she earned second team all-conference honors while averaging 10.5 points per game and leading the league in rebounding with 8.7 per game. She also ranked among league leaders in assists (3.0), blocked shots (1.5), and steals (1.7). Her performance helped Youngstown State reach a 25-10 record, make it to the Horizon League title game, and advance to the Women’s National Invitation Tournament Super 16 round.
As a freshman during the previous season, Gregory averaged 10.2 points and 7.9 rebounds per game and was named Horizon League Freshman of the Year after setting a school record for blocked shots by a freshman at Youngstown State.
Off the court, Gregory studies finance and has been recognized on both the CSC Academic All-District Team and Academic All-Horizon League Team as a sophomore. Prior to college, she was an Ohio Division II second team all-state performer at West Branch High School where she finished her career ranked fourth in school history in points scored.
“We’re excited to welcome Sophia Gregory to our program,” Alexis Sherard, Liberty Women’s Basketball Head Coach said. “She’s a versatile, positionless player at 6-2 who impacts the game on both ends. She led her previous team in assists and earned Defensive Player of the Year honors as a sophomore after being named Freshman of the Year the previous season. Even more importantly, Sophia is a strong believer whose values align with what we stand for at Liberty. She’s a high-character young woman, and we’re thrilled to have her join our family.”
