Illinois State added a soon-to-be senior to its roster for 2017 by way of the transfer market in the form of Juma Armando. Previously at Chicago State, Armando is a 5’11” outside hitter who will have one year left of play which she plans to exhaust this season with the Redbirds.
Armando appeared in all 29 of Chicago State’s matches last season and was the team-leader in a myriad of categories: points (296.5), points per set (2.99), kills (271) and kills per set (2.74).
“We are extremely excited that Juma chose Illinois State University to continue her college career,” ISU associate head coach Eric Plunkett said in the Illinois State release. “She has a great work ethic and strong character that will add value to this roster. She is a dynamic athlete with a great arm and we believe she will be a productive scorer.”
Prior to her one year at Chicago State, Armando grew up in Toronto Canada. Following her high school days, she spent two seasons with Vincennes University where she ranked in the top-50 in the NJCAA Division II in kills and kills per set.
“I’m so excited to compete and be a part of this team,” Armando said in the Illinois State announcement. “I have a good feeling about this season and hope I can contribute to this team’s success.”
It was only back in 2014 that Illinois State last made the NCAA Tournament, winning their first game in a 27-6 season. They won 22 more games in 2015 before dropping down to 17-15 in 2016. The 2017 version of the Redbirds featured eight upperclass-women and three seniors before Armando made her decision. It’s a veteran team – one that Illinois State is stacking up on in hopes of another strong season in the always competitive Missouri Valley Conference.
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