Teams had to literally adjust their game plans to try to stop former Morehead State star Tasha Gales. A member of the Eagle women’s basketball program from 1999-03, the Columbus, Ohio native finished as one of the top scorers, rebounders and shot blockers in program history.
 
Gales scored 1,602 points as an Eagle, good enough for fourth in program history at the conclusion of her career. That still ranks sixth. She also corralled 822 career rebounds, which still ranks ninth in program history.
 
The 6-2 center also had a knack for turning opponent shots away. She ranks third in career blocked shots at MSU with 205, with her figure being the school career record when she finished in 2002-03. In addition, Gales still ranks sixth in most field goals made (645) and eighth in free throws made (301).
 
After sitting out as a redshirt in 1998-99, Gales’ first season produced 16.7 points and 9.1 rebounds. She also led the team as a redshirt junior in 2001-02 with 16.9 points and 7.0 rebounds. She helped lead the Eagles to a 21-win season and a 16-win campaign her final two seasons.
 
Gales earned First-Team All-OVC in 2001-02 and was Honorable Mention All-OVC her other three seasons.
 
Gales signed with MSU in 1997 after being ranked as one of the top 100 recruits in the nation out of Columbus’ Whetstone High School.

Off the court, Gales’ story is just as meaningful as her accomplishments. She came to Morehead State alongside her high school sweetheart, Rick Thompson, and their relationship remained a steady part of her journey as a student-athlete. The two later married in 2005, and welcomed their son, Xzavier in 2008. Tragically, Gales passed away in 2011, but her legacy continues to live on through her family and the countless people she impacted throughout her life.

Though she is no longer with us, her influence remains deeply felt, and she is being honored posthumously for the remarkable legacy she left on Morehead State Women’s Basketball.