University of Arkansas at Monticello Athletics

El Dorado native Rose Avery played just two seasons with the UAM Cotton Blossoms basketball team (1988-89 and 1989-90) after transferring from junior college, but became one of the most decorated athletes in school history.

A two-time consensus first team All-American, Avery teamed with fellow All-American Tina Webb to lead the Blossoms to a two-year record of 60-8. In Avery’s senior year, the Blossoms won the AIC championship, the NAIA District 17 title, and reached the championship game of the NAIA National Tournament.

Avery finished her career with 1,688 points (24.8 per game), 793 rebounds (11.7 per game), and established career and season records for blocked shots (168 for her career, 90 in 1989-90).

A versatile player who could score, rebound and play defense, Avery had career bests on the same night when she scored 46 points and grabbed 22 rebounds against Oral Roberts University on February 10, 1990.