In a historic moment for collegiate basketball, University of North Texas senior Megan Nestor has demolished a nearly half-century-old rebounding record with at least four games remaining in the regular season. The 6-foot-4 center from the coastal village of Canaries, Saint Lucia, achieved her 17th double-double of the season during Tuesday night’s dominant 84-54 victory over the University of Alabama-Birmingham at the Super Pit arena.
Nestor entered the contest requiring just six rebounds to surpass Sharon Shelton’s longstanding record of 364 boards set in 1978. She accomplished this milestone early in the third quarter and finished with an impressive 14 rebounds alongside 16 points on exceptional shooting efficiency—making all nine field goal attempts and converting a perfect 7-7 from the free-throw line. The celebration became particularly memorable as Nestor’s mother was present to witness her daughter’s extraordinary achievement.
The record-breaking performance places Nestor among elite company in NCAA women’s basketball. Maintaining her current pace would make her only the third player since the 2019-20 season to average 14+ rebounds per game, joining Angel Reese (LSU) and Lauren Gustin (BYU) in this exclusive category. Furthermore, she is positioned to challenge the American Conference’s single-season rebounding record of 418 set by South Florida’s Dulcy Fankam Mendjiadeu in 2023.
Nestor’s consistency has been remarkable, with double-digit performances in points and rebounds in 12 of her last 13 games. Her 17 double-doubles place her just one behind the current national leaders.
Reflecting on her journey from NAIA competition, Nestor expressed both surprise and satisfaction: ‘Coming from the NAIA level, I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to do it. It feels really special. Being recognized and doing what I’m doing with my team just means a lot to me.’
The Mean Green (15-11, 9-5 American) have found their rhythm with four victories in their recent outings, including three consecutive wins at home. The team delivered a comprehensive performance against UAB, with five players scoring in double figures while the defense limited opponents to 54 points and forced 19 turnovers. North Texas also matched its season-best with only six turnovers and played a flawless second half without a single giveaway.