PEMBROKE – Head women's basketball coach Dr. Kendra Samuels-Eaton announced the addition of Ashara Hayes to the coaching staff for the 2026-27 season.
 
Hayes will serve as a graduate assistant coach.

"We are excited to welcome Ashara to our program. She is a proven winner, joining us from Fayetteville State, where she helped lead the team to back-to-back CIAA championships and a Division II Sweet 16 appearance," said Samuels-Eaton. "Her experience on the court, combined with her ability to connect with players, will be a tremendous asset to our program."
 
Hayes comes to Pembroke after serving as the varsity assistant women's basketball coach at Seventy-First High School in Fayetteville, where she helped lead the Falcons to a 23-3 record and its first regional championship appearance in 13 years. Hayes was responsible for creating scouting reports and leading skill development workouts, team conditioning sessions, and weight training. Prior to her time at Seventy-First High School, Hayes was a four-year player at Fayetteville State, where she was a part of back-to-back CIAA Championship teams while helping lead the Broncos to a 29-3 record and a berth in the Division II Sweet 16.

"First, I want to thank God for this incredible opportunity, as well as Coach Kendra, the coaching staff, and my entire support system for believing in me," said Hayes. "Joining the UNCP women's basketball program is a true blessing. I am incredibly excited to learn from this staff, compete for championships, and, most importantly, make a meaningful impact on our players' lives both on and off the court."