BBC Sport: DeYona Gaston Parts Ways with Auburn Tigers Women’s Basketball Amid Unforeseen Circumstances
January 7, 2025
DeYona Gaston, a standout forward for the Auburn Tigers women’s basketball team, has unexpectedly parted ways with the program due to unforeseen circumstances. Gaston, who transferred to Auburn from the University of Texas in April 2024, has been a pivotal player for the Tigers this season.
Background
Gaston, a 6-foot-2 forward from Pearland, Texas, joined Auburn as a graduate transfer after a successful tenure at Texas, where she earned accolades including the Big 12 Sixth Woman of the Year in 2024 and All-Big 12 First Team honors in 2023. At Auburn, she quickly became a key contributor, averaging 8.4 points and 4.2 rebounds per game in the 2024-25 season.
Recent Performance
In December 2024, Gaston delivered several standout performances, including a 35-point game against Alabama State, leading Auburn to an 83-40 victory. Her contributions have been instrumental in Auburn’s recent successes, making her sudden departure all the more surprising.
Unforeseen Departure
The circumstances surrounding Gaston’s departure have not been publicly disclosed. Both Gaston and Auburn Athletics have refrained from commenting on the specifics, citing privacy concerns. The unexpected nature of this development has left fans and analysts speculating about the potential impact on the team’s dynamics and performance for the remainder of the season.
Future Prospects
While there is no official confirmation regarding Gaston’s next steps, rumors have surfaced about a potential move to another program. However, without concrete information, it remains uncertain where Gaston will continue her basketball career.
Team Response
Auburn’s head coach, Johnnie Harris, acknowledged Gaston’s departure in a brief statement: “We appreciate DeYona’s contributions to our program and wish her the best in her future endeavors.” The team is expected to adjust its lineup and strategies to compensate for the loss of such a significant player.
Looking Ahead
The Auburn Tigers will need to regroup quickly as they continue their season without one of their leading players. The coaching staff and remaining team members are likely to face challenges in maintaining their performance levels and team cohesion in the wake of Gaston’s departure.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to BBC Sport.
For a closer look at DeYona Gaston’s journey and impact on the court, you can watch the following feature: