It’s been 351 days since BGSU women’s basketball fifth-year guard Lexi Fleming saw action for the Orange and Brown.

After suffering a season-ending knee injury back on Dec. 22, 2o23 against Indiana, Fleming returned to the floor for Bowling Green against the Xavier Musketeers.

“Just being back out there was amazing, said Fleming postgame. Especially just coming back at the Stroh, a couple of pass BG teammates have been here. Just really made it a great environment to be back in.”

With 6:27 left to play in the first quarter, Fleming checked into the game for the first time and received a round of applause from the Stroh Center. A few moments later, she knocked down a three-pointer from the right wing for her first points this season.

“Obviously, the crowd’s going crazy, but just the emotions associated with making that first shot…honestly, it looked a little right, so I was a little bit nervous, said Fleming. “But I know if I didn’t shoot it, Coach Fred would have to say something and probably take me out right after that for not shooting it.”

One of the teammates who is the most excited to see Fleming back on the floor is her fellow guard, Amy Velasco.

“I just love playing with her, I almost started crying when she made the three, said Velasco. “I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, don’t cry.’ I’m just so excited to be playing with her again.”

Throughout the entire rehab process and all her past injuries, Fleming has stayed true to her character.

“She takes on any role you ask of her,” said Velasco. “During the process, she kind of had to be that coaching role, that leadership role, and of course she does that great. She does everything great.”

In Bowling Green’s 78-59 win over Xavier, Fleming ended the night with nine points, shooting 75% from the floor, hitting three of four three-pointers, along with an assist and a steal.

After making her first appearance of the season, Fleming is ready to get back into business but will certainly not forget to celebrate her achievement of coming back from a second knee injury.

“I was trying to act like I’ve been there before. That didn’t happen too much. But I also think with the injuries I’ve been through; I think a little bit of celebrating like that is going to take me a long way.”