Mikaela Esparza to Represent Morgan and Lady Bears at International HBCU Volleyball Invitational in Botswana

Elevating its presence within international play, Morgan State University Volleyball (V-Ball) will have a representative at the emerging Ditsala International Cup, an international volleyball invitational attracting diverse V-ball talent from across the globe. Junior transfer student-athlete Mikaela Esparza has been selected to compete in the second annual event, making her the lone Lady Bear to take the international stage in Botswana amid the competitive field volleyers. The tournament, hosted by Bring It Promotions (BIP) and the Botswana Volleyball Federation, will take place from May 29 to June 1, 2025, bringing together top collegiate players from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and national teams from across Southern Africa. 

Esparza, a libero/defensive specialist from Chandler, Arizona, is grateful and excited about the opportunity.

“My coach offered me the opportunity to represent Morgan at this tournament, and I was honored to accept,” Esparza said. “It is a privilege to be chosen for such a significant event, and I am truly grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me.”

Her selection highlights not only her talent and dedication but also the growing international presence of HBCU athletics. As she prepares to showcase her skills on a global platform, the Cybersecurity Intelligence Management major and American Sign Language (ASL) minor remains focused on proudly representing her team, university, and country. 

“I was incredibly excited and honored when I got the news,” she recalled. “I got emotional—I even shed a few tears. Having the opportunity to represent my university and compete internationally is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Morgan’s Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, Dena Freeman-Patton, emphasized the significance of Esparza’s participation in the tournament.

“We are incredibly proud of Mikaela and what this opportunity represents for Morgan State Volleyball,” said Freeman-Patton. “Competing on an international stage is not only a tremendous personal achievement for Mikaela but also a milestone for our program. It aligns with our commitment to providing student-athletes with transformative experiences that extend beyond the court.”

Head Volleyball Coach Xiomara Ortiz echoed these sentiments, underscoring Esparza’s growth and dedication.

“Mikaela has worked a lot on being open to feedback and making intentional changes to her serve this spring,” Ortiz said. “It means the world to support my athletes, and with the help of AD Dena Freeman-Patton, we are giving Mikaela a life-changing experience. Playing internationally expands a player's global perspective—not only in terms of the cultural experience but also by highlighting the differences in resources and opportunities available in volleyball worldwide.”

The Ditsala International Cup will serve as the first leg of the U.S. delegation’s multi-country African tour, which includes visits to local youth volleyball clinics, cultural sites, and diplomatic engagements. More than a competition, the expedition to South Africa is an invitation to study abroad.

The cohort of HBCU student-athletes will embark on many experiential activities comprising educational and cultural exchange. Among the highly anticipated events of this immersive experience is a scheduled visit to the U.S. Embassy in Botswana to meet with diplomats, learn about embassy initiatives, and engage in discussions on sports diplomacy. This visit underscores how athletics serve as a bridge for international collaboration and development. From experiencing new perspectives, learning how to navigate different cultures, working with diverse peers, and communicating in other languages, Esparza looks forward to the entire experience, both on and off the court.

A recent recipient of the Alston Award for her academic achievement, Esparza attributes her selection to her hard work and dedication and will likely use the funds from the award to support portions of the expenses related to her travel to Botswana.

“I am eager to immerse myself in the culture, build friendships with athletes from around the world, and compete at the highest level,” she said. “This is more than just volleyball; it’s about growing as an athlete and a person.”

Joining Esparza and Morgan at this year’s 2nd annual tournament are teams comprising student-athletes from Alabama State University, Bowie State University, Elizabeth City State University, Hampton University, Norfolk State University, Virginia State University, and Winston-Salem State University. 

Morgan State University and the Lady Bears volleyball program are proud to support Esparza as she takes this significant step in her athletic career, proving that the reach of HBCU talent knows no bounds. Congratulations Mikaela Esparza!