Jen Lloyd was busy.
She wouldn’t have it any other way.
Finishing her second year as commissioner of the Maritime Women’s Basketball Association, the affable Lloyd was in her element, overseeing the recent PRO•LINE Legacy Cup championship in Fredericton as the league put a bow on its fourth season of competition.
Lloyd has been with the league from the start, spending two seasons as director of officiating before taking over from Tasia McKenna to guide the ship that houses seven teams.
‘We have closed out another incredible season of MWBA basketball and I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making 2025 such a success,’ said Lloyd, a Dartmouth, NS, resident. ‘Miramichi Her-Icanes are our PRO•LINE Legacy Cup champions. What that franchise has brought to the league is truly inspiring. We had such a competitive regular season and capped off by a tremendous championship weekend in Fredericton and a fantastic final against Lake City.’
Lloyd’s two-year term will expire at the league’s annual general meeting in October. She has offered to return to her post.
Her passion for the MWBA remains deep-rooted.
‘I have had so much help behind the scenes with Lori Wall as vice commissioner being such a steady hand and being such a sounding board,’ Lloyd said. ‘Shelley Janes came on board managing our finances and her diligence and transparency has been an outstanding asset. Shelby MacIssac was brilliant in her first year leading our social media charge. I’ve been incredibly fortunate with the team surrounding me.’
Lloyd will take the summer to gauge returning to the commissioner’s role as the MWBA jumps into planning for 2026 already.
Scheduling, potential expansion and more will dominate the off-season.
The league expansion deadline is Friday, Oct. 17. The MWBA is already in the process of drawing up schedules for seven or eight teams.
‘Our team managers and support staffs bring so much passion, leadership and professionalism which continues to make the MWBA one of the premier women’s basketball leagues in Canada,’ said Lloyd. ‘Their efforts are what bring our mission and vision to life. I am incredibly grateful to be working alongside such a dedicated group.’
Lloyd put a stamp on the league with her direct approach and ensuring communication was at the top of the order.
‘As Commissioner, I have aimed to improve the league through consistent and transparent communication,’ she said. ‘I have done my best to listen and respond to emails, comments and concerns with care, compassion, and professionalism. It has truly been a joy to be part of the MWBA. I am proud to serve this incredible community of like-minded basketball people who share a deep love for the game and an unwavering commitment to growing women’s sport in our region.’
– Jen Lloyd, left, with Legacy Cup MVP Grace Lancaster and Carly Johnston, program manager of community engagement with JD Irving Ltd., at the recent MWBA championship. (Fran Harris Photo)