Warrensburg, Mo. (Apr. 21, 2000) - Central Missouri State University women's basketball coach Scott Ballard has announced the signing of his first recruit for the 2000-2001 season. Joining the Jennies for next season is Jena Shackelford, a 5' 9" guard from Shawnee Mission (Kan.) Northwest High School.

A first-team all-state selection in Class 6A, Shackelford averaged 16.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 4.4 steals for Shawnee Mission Northwest's 18-5 squad this past season. A starter for three seasons, she finished her high school career with 1,039 points.

"Jena is a tremendous outside shooter and also has good rebounding skills," said Ballard. "She gives us more depth at the guard position and we feel she is a great addition to our team."

With no seniors on the squad, the Jennies were 22-7 this past season, their fifth under Ballard, and received an NCAA Division II regional bid.