Western Carolina University
Having fun while we win
The alcove of the Blue Ridge dorm is a great place to meet.
SE
S R O I N
#2 Forward • 6-0 • Senior Knoxville, Tenn. Alabama • Powell HS
CAITLIN HOLLIFIELD
This is Cait’s time. She is a fearless competitor and leader for our team. We are looking for Cait to continue to provide versatility and experience in the post while bringing the urgency needed to compete for a SoCon championship. - Karen Middleton
Up Close With Caitlin Hollifield
I chose to play at WCU because..
of the family type atmosphere of the program and my teammates.
What is your secret food craving?
Milk Duds
What is your craziest ambition?
To go backpacking in the Amazon.
Name one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I have a legit spider collection.
What is one extreme thing you would do?
Skydiving or scuba diving.
Who is the best singer on the team?
Janae’ (McKinney) because she mimes with the gospel choir.
What is your favorite food?
My mom’s lasagna.
When you were younger, what player did you pretend to be?
Chamique Holdsclaw
One place in the world you would like to help?
Uganda to help make a difference in the “invisible children’s” lives down there.
Caitlin Hollifield with her student teaching class
2010-11 Highlights • Started all 31 games • Avg. 9.6 points per game • Avg. 6.4 rebounds per game • Had 24 blocks on the season • Led team in scoring 14 times • Led team with 38 steals
LINK TO FULL BIO
Career Highs Points: 22 (Samford, 02/20/10) Rebounds: 13 (Chattanooga, 01/22/11) FG Made: 8 (Chattanooga, 01/22/11) FG Attempts: 19 (UNC Asheville, 11/21/10) 3-pt. Made: 2, 3x (last vs. James Madison, 12/30/10) 3-pt. Attempts: 3 (James Madison 12/30/10) FT Made: 10 (Samford, 02/20/10) FT Attempts: 14 (Samford, 02/20/10) Assists: 3, 4x (last vs.Chattanooga, 01/22/11) Steals: 4 (Davidson 02/05/11) Blocks: 4 (College of Charleston, 02/19/11) Minutes Played: 39 (Georgia Southern, 01/14/11) Miscellaneous Double Figure Scoring: 23 Double Figure Rebounding: 9 Double-Doubles: 4 Games Led WCU in Scoring: 10 Games Led WCU in Rebounding: 28 Career Totals Points: 472 Rebounds: 341 FG Made: 170 3-Pt Made: 12 FT Made: 120 Steals: 56 Assists: 56 Blocks: 44
#22
Guard • 5-8• Senior Raleigh, N.C. Wakefield HS
KAILA’SHEA MENENDEZ
Kaila wants to win and is a very competitive player. It’s been a joy to see the development of Kaila’s game from a slasher who attacks the rim to a player with the ability to hit the midrange and “3.” She always competes on both ends of the floor. We are excited to see Kaila have a special senior year. - Karen Middleton
Up Close With
Kaila’ Shea Menendez
I chose to play at WCU because..
of the family atmosphere.
If tomorrow’s headline was about you, what would it say?
Kaila’Shea Menendez ... She did it!!!
What will you be doing in 10 years?
I hope to become the director of a health and fitness center and mentor youth.
When you were younger, what player did you pretend to be?
Sheryl Swoops.
Who is the best dancer on the team?
Melanie Stewart.
What is your favorite food?
Pizza and chicken alfredo.
What are you three most prized possession?
Family pictures, cell phone and jewelry given to me by my grandmother.
What would you be doing if not playing basketball?
Studying abroad.
Kaila’Shea Menendez with Dr. Maridy Troy, Assistant Professor in Exercise Physiology
2010-11 Highlights • Started all 31 games • Led team with 11.1 points per game • With 786 career points, 214 from 1,000 • Led team in scoring eight times • Scored career-high 22 points vs. UNCG on Feb. 7
LINK TO FULL BIO
Career Highs Points: 22 (UNCG, 02/07/11) Rebounds: 8 (East Carolina, 11/14/10) FG Made: 8 (Cincinnati, 11/24/09) FG Attempts: 16 (UNCG, 02/07/11) 3-pt. Made: 4 (UNCG, 02/07/11) 3-pt. Attempts: 8 (UNCG, 02/07/11) FT Made: 11 (UNCG, 02/16/10) FT Attempts: 13(East Carolina, 11/14/10) Assists: 3, 2x (last vs. Coastal Carolina, 11/25/09) Steals: 3, 4x (last vs. UNCG, 01/03/11) Blocks: 3 (Wofford, 02/21/11) Minutes Played: 37 (UNCG, 02/07/11) Miscellaneous Double Figure Scoring: 34 Double Figure Rebounding: 0 Double-Doubles: 0 Games Led WCU in Scoring: 18 Games Led WCU in Rebounding: 4 Games with 20+ Points: 7
Western Carolina Women's Basketball Individual Career History
Career Totals Points: 785 Rebounds: 250 FG Made: 242 3-pt Made: 40 FT Made: 262 Steals: 56 Assists: 83 Blocks: 11
Menendez, Kaila'Shea Season
2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 TOTAL
gp-gs
min/avg
32-0 453/14.2 30-9 647/21.6 31-31 836/27.0 93-40 1936/20.8
Total fg-fga
55-145 85-198 102-274 242-617
pct
.379 .429 .372 .392
3-Point fg-fga
9-36 10-30 21-61 40-127
pct
.250 .333 .344 .315
F-Throws ft-fta pct
46-56 96-118 120-162 262-336
.821 .814 .741 .780
off
Rebounds def tot
22 40 23 42 44 79 89 161
62 65 123 250
avg
pf
1.9 53 2.2 71 4.0 86 2.7 210
fo
0 2 2 4
ast
to
21 49 33 71 29 104 83 224
blk
0 4 7 11
stl
16 16 24 56
Scoring pts avg
165 276 345 786
5.2 9.2 11.1 8.5
#3
Forward • 6-1 • Senior Milwaukee, Wisc. Lincoln Trail College/ Hamilton HS
LAURA SANCHEZ
Laura has tremendous versatility and good face up touch on the perimeter. She has returned in the best of shape and is ready to make an impact this season for our team. We are excited about the year ahead for Laura. - Karen Middleton
Up Close With Laura Sanchez
What is your secret food crazing?
Crab Legs.
What do you enjoy most about playing basketball on the collegiate level?
The intensity and everyone has skill.
What superpower would you like to have?
To fly.
What is your favorite food?
Steak.
Who is the best dancer on the team?
Diamond.
What are your three most prized possessions?
Just one, my grandmother’s necklace.
What is your dream job?
To play basketball.
Who is the best singer on the team?
Kaila’Shea, only if you want to know one word of the song. Maybe she could sing a phrase every once in a while.
Laura Sanchez with Professor Holly Moss
2010-11 Highlights • Played in 29 games • Had a career-high two three pointers against then #14 North Carolina • Career-high six rebounds against Appalachian State
LINK TO FULL BIO
Career Highs Points: 8 (North Carolina, 11/21/10) Rebounds: 6 (Appalachian State, 01/31/11) FG Made: 2 (North Carolina, 11/21/10) FG Attempts: 7 (North Carolina, 11/21/10) 3-pt. Made: 2 (North Carolina, 11/21/10) 3-pt. Attempts: 5 (North Carolina, 11/21/10) FT Made: 2 (Richmond, 11/12/10) FT Attempts: 3 (Richmond, 11/12/10) Assists: 1, 2x (last vs. Samford, 11/29/10) Steals: 1, 4x (last vs. Davidson, 01/08/11) Blocks: 1 (UNCG, 02/07/11) Minutes Played: 22 (Richmond, 11/12/10) Miscellaneous Games Led WCU in Scoring: 1 Career Totals Points: 27 Rebounds: 36 FG Made: 9 3-pt Made: 4 FT Made: 5 Steals: 5 Assists: 4 Blocks: 1
Western Carolina Women's Basketball Individual Career History Sanchez, Laura Season
2010-11 TOTAL
gp-gs
29-0 29-0
min/avg
225/7.8 225/7.8
Total fg-fga
9-41 9-41
pct
.220 .220
3-Point fg-fga
4-14 4-14
pct
.286 .286
F-Throws ft-fta pct
5-6 5-6
.833 .833
off
8 8
Rebounds def tot
28 28
36 36
avg
1.2 1.2
pf
24 24
fo
0 0
ast
4 4
to
14 14
blk
1 1
stl
5 5
Scoring pts avg
27 0.9 27 0.9
Members of the Catamount women’s basketball team enjoy a break at Starbucks on campus.
JUNIORS
#11
Forward • 5-10 • R-Junior Jonesboro, Ga. Landmark Christian
Diamond brings length and athleticism to our perimeter. She has a very good basketball mind and really uses that knowledge and athleticism on the floor for us. We are excited to see Diamond continue to be a dependable contributor for our team. - Karen Middleton
Diamond Hunnicutt
Up Close With
Diamond Hunnicutt
What is your craziest ambition?
Become the richest person in the world.
What will you be doing 10 years from now?
Working on a production crew for CNN in Atlanta or another city.
What is your favorite city to visit?
Los Angeles.
When you were younger, what player did you pretend to be?
My daddy.
What is your secret food craving?
Cheese.
I chose to play at Western Carolina because...
great team chemistry and communication dept. is top notch.
What is your dream job?
Being a TV personality for entertianment news.
What do you enjoy most about playing basketball on the collegiate level?
Traveling and cool gear.
Diamond Hunnicutt with Athletic Trainers Brandon King and Mary Jackaway
2010-11 Highlights • Played in all 31 games and started 25 • Scored a career-high 13 points against then No. 14 Florida State • After hitting just one three pointer in her previous two season, had 10 three pointers this season
LINK TO FULL BIO
Career Highs Points: 13 (Florida Stae, 12/04/10) Rebounds: 8, 2x (Chattanooga, 02/26/11) FG Made: 3, 2x (last vs. Georgia State, 12/11/10) FG Attempts: 11 (Florida State, 12/04/10) 3-pt. Made: 2, 3x (last vs. Elon, 12/18/10) 3-pt. Attempts: 2, 4x (last vs. Samford, 03/04/11) FT Made: 8 (Appalachian State, 01/03/09) FT Attempts: 14 (Appalachian State, 01/03/09) Assists: 3 (UNCG 02/07/11) Steals: 4 (Appalachian State, 02/04/09) Blocks: 1, 7x (last vs. College of Charleston, 02/19/11) Minutes Played: 34, 2x (last vs. Samford, 03/04/11) Miscellaneous Double Figure Scoring: 3 Double Figure Rebounding: 1 Double-Doubles: 0 Games Led WCU in Scoring: 1 Games Led WCU in Rebounding: 5 Games with 20+ Points: 0 Career Totals Points: 168 Rebounds: 159 FG Made: 62 3-pt Made: 11 FT Made: 53 Assists: 22 Steals:41 Blocks: 7
Western Carolina Women's Basketball Individual Career History Hunnicutt, Diamond Season
2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 TOTAL
gp-gs
32-0 3-0 31-25 66-25
min/avg
306/9.6 12/4.0 676/21.8 994/15.1
Total fg-fga
22-57 1-3 39-143 62-203
pct
.386 .333 .273 .305
3-Point fg-fga
pct
0-3 .000 1-1 1.000 10-29 .345 11-33 .333
F-Throws ft-fta pct
24-39 0-0 29-49 53-88
.615 .000 .592 .602
off
25 1 38 64
Rebounds def tot
34 1 60 95
59 2 98 159
avg
1.8 0.7 3.2 2.4
pf
35 2 47 84
fo
2 0 1 3
ast
3 0 19 22
to
23 2 45 70
blk
4 0 3 7
stl
14 0 27 41
Scoring pts avg
68 3 117 188
2.1 1.0 3.8 2.8
#5
Forward • 5-10 • R-Junior Columbus, Ga. Kendrick HS
Janae’ McKinney
Janae brings so much energy and plays with such passion. She is a tenacious rebounder and explosive post player. Janae continues to set an incredible example in her play and her personality. She had a great summer and worked extremely hard on the court. We are looking for continued big things from Janae this year. - Karen Middleton
Up Close With Janae’ McKinney
I chose to play at WCU because..
of the area and the team.
If tomorrow’s headline was about you, what would it say?
McKinney leads WCU in three point attempts made.
When you were younger, who did you pretned to be?
Michael Jordan.
Who is the best dancer on the team?
Diamond.
What is your favorite food?
Banana pudding.
Describe yourself in one word.
Unique.
What do you enjoy most about playing basketball on collegiate level?
Traveling.
What is one extreme thing you would do?
Snowboarding.
Janae’ McKinney with Assistant Vice chancellor for Student Affairs Jane Dunford
2010-11 Highlights • Started in all 31 games • Pulled down a season-best 197 rebounds and tied for first in rebounds for the team, averaging 6.4 per game • Led the team in rebounding in a game 12 times • Notched first double-double of her career against East Carolina scoring 14 points and ripping down 11 rebounds • Ranked second on the team in steals with 36
LINK TO FULL BIO
Career Highs Points: 19 (Elon, 12/18/10) Rebounds: 12 (Elon, 12/18/10) FG Made: 7(East Carolina, 11/14/10) FG Attempts: 13 (East Carolina, 11/14/10) 3-pt. Made: 3-pt. Attempts: FT Made: 9 (Elon, 12/18/10) FT Attempts: 12 ((Elon, 12/18/10) Assists: 1, 5x (last vs. Samford, 01/24/11) Steals: 5 (Georgia State, 12/11/10) Blocks: 1, 3x (last vs. Georgia Southern, 03/03/11) Minutes Played:34, 2x (last vs. UNCG, 02/07/11) Miscellaneous Double Figure Scoring: 5 Double Figure Rebounding: 4 Double-Doubles: 3 Games Led WCU in Scoring: 1 Games Led WCU in Rebounding: 14 Career Totals Points: 276 Rebounds: 286 FG Made: 100 FT Made: 76 Steals: 49 Assists: 14 Blocks: 4
Western Carolina Women's Basketball Individual Career History McKinney, Janae' Season
2009-10 2010-11 TOTAL
gp-gs
min/avg
27-9 421/15.6 31-31 811/26.2 58-40 1232/21.2
Total fg-fga
41-87 59-156 100-243
pct
.471 .378 .412
3-Point fg-fga
0-0 0-0 0-0
pct
.000 .000 .000
F-Throws ft-fta pct
22-36 54-99 76-135
off
Rebounds def tot
.611 37 52 .545 94 103 .563 131 155
89 197 286
avg
pf
3.3 40 6.4 61 4.9 101
fo
0 1 1
ast
2 12 14
to
19 56 75
blk
1 3 4
stl
13 36 49
Scoring pts avg
104 3.9 172 5.5 276 4.8
#10
Guard • 5-4 • Junior West Memphis, Ark.
West Memphis HS/Southwest CC We are excited about Chris and the experience and speed she will bring to the point position. She has excellent quickness, very good vision, and long range touch from “3.” Chris loves to play and her teammates will benefit from her ability to create. - Karen Middleton
Crystal Riley
LINK TO FULL BIO
Up Close With Crystal Riley
What is the coolest about WCU?
My teammates
Name one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
That I am soft spoken but can be very loud.
What is your favorite food?
Chinese.
Describe yourself in one word.
Blessed.
What is your secret food craving?
Strawberries.
When you were younger, what player did you pretend to be?
Ivory Latta.
What superpower would you like to have?
To fly.
I chose to play at Western Carolina because...
it has everything to offer: great coaching staff, nice facilities and unique programs.
Crystal Riley with Western Carolina Athletics Secretary Kim Jamison.
Lunch in the dining hall, on the WCU campus, is a must for the team.
SOPHOMORES
#21
Forward • 6-0 • Sophomore Stone Mountain, Ga. Paideia School
Alex Abraham
Alex has been a tremendous addition to our team. She brings maturity, leadership, and great versatility on the court. Alex knows and understands the game exceptionally well and is someone everyone knows they can depend on. She makes the right play at the right time. We are looking for Alex to contribute in the post and help make this year special. - Karen Middleton
Up Close With Alex Abraham
What is your dream job?
Working in the Peace Corps.
What is the coolest thing about Western Carolina University?
The sense of community.
What is your craziest ambition?
To learn to fly a plane.
What superpower would you like to have?
I would like the ability to time travel.
What is your favorite food?
Chinese and pumpkin bread.
Describe yourself in one word.
Genuine.
What do you enjoy most about playing on the collegiate level?
The constant competition, you can never relax or take a day off.
What are your three most prized possessions?
My cat and a family heirloom ring from each side of my family.
Alex Abraham with Dr. Brian Railsback, Dean of the Honors College
2010-11 Highlights • Played in 29 of 31 games. • Career-high two blocks against College of Charleston on February 19 • Leads the team in floor burns
LINK TO FULL BIO
Career Highs Points: 7, 2x (last vs. Wofford, 02/21/11) Rebounds: 7 (College of Charleston , 02/19/11) FG Made: 3 (College of Charleston , 02/19/11) FG Attempts: 7 (College of Charleston , 02/19/11) 3-pt. Made: 3-pt. Attempts: FT Made: 2, 2x (last vs. Wofford , 02/09/11) FT Attempts: 4 (Wofford, 02/09/11) Assists: 1, 3x (last vs. Georgia Southern, 02/14/11) Steals: 4 (Elon, 01/29/11) Blocks: 2 (College of Chareston, 02/19/11) Minutes Played: 26 (Furman, 02/12/11) Miscellaneous Games Led WCU in Rebounding: 1
Western Carolina Women's Basketball Individual Career History Abraham, Alex Season
2010-11 TOTAL
gp-gs
29-0 29-0
min/avg
277/9.6 277/9.6
Total fg-fga
13-43 13-43
pct
.302 .302
3-Point fg-fga
0-0 0-0
pct
.000 .000
F-Throws ft-fta pct
15-23 15-23
.652 .652
off
27 27
Rebounds def tot
28 28
55 55
avg
1.9 1.9
pf
28 28
fo
0 0
ast
8 8
to
15 15
blk
2 2
stl
23 23
Scoring pts avg
41 1.4 41 1.4
#33 Guard/Forward 5-9 • Sophomore Durham, N.C. Jordan HS
Kristen Lyon
Kristen brings to our team good size at the guard position. She is an excellent shooter, can attack off the dribble, and uses her size to post on the block. Her versatility and commitment to defense and rebounding makes her a valuable all around player for us. We are excited to see Kristen take that next step and have a great year. - Karen Middleton
Up Close With Kristen Lyon
I choose to play at WCU because..
I love the campus, people and coaches.
When you were younger, what player did you pretend to be?
Michael Jordan.
What superpower would you like to have?
Flight.
What is your most secret food craving?
Snack Pack Jello.
What is the coolest thing about WCU?
The fountain.
What is your favorite food?
Chicken nuggets.
What will you be doing in 10 years?
Married, working as a counseling psychologist and doing ministry.
What do you enjoy most about playing basketball on the collegiate level?
The amount of discipline it provokes.
Kristen Lyon with Academic Advisor Meredith McCall.
2010-11 Highlights • Played in 28 of 31 games • Hit first three-pointer of her career against Charlotte. • Averaged 2.5 points and 2.0 rebounds per game.
LINK TO FULL BIO
Career Highs Points: 8, 2x (last vs. College of Charleston, 02/19/11) Rebounds: 6 (Wofford, 02/21/11) FG Made: 4 (College of Charleston, 02/19/11) FG Attempts: 11 (College of Charleston, 02/19/11) 3-pt. Made: 1, 2x (last vs. College of Charleston, 01/08/11) 3-pt. Attempts: 4 (College of Charleston, 01/08/11) FT Made: 4 (Furman, 02/12/11) FT Attempts: 5(Furman, 02/12/11) Assists: 1, 4x (last vs. Furman, 02/12/11) Steals: 3 (Appalachian State, 01/31/11) Blocks: 1 (Appalachian State, 01/31/11) Minutes Played: 25(Elon, 01/29/11)
Western Carolina Women's Basketball Individual Career History Lyon, Kristen Season
2010-11 TOTAL
gp-gs
28-0 28-0
min/avg
326/11.6 326/11.6
Total fg-fga
29-83 29-83
pct
.349 .349
3-Point fg-fga
4-20 4-20
pct
.200 .200
F-Throws ft-fta pct
9-16 9-16
.563 .563
off
23 23
Rebounds def tot
33 33
56 56
avg
2.0 2.0
pf
24 24
fo
0 0
ast
9 9
to
24 24
blk
1 1
stl
10 10
Scoring pts avg
71 2.5 71 2.5
#34
Forward • 6-0 • Sophomore Henderson, N.C. Southern Vance HS
Shauna Terry
Shauna is coming off a very productive freshman year. She has great athleticism and is a force in the paint. She worked extremely hard this summer to improve her game and her touch around the basket. We are excited about the impact Shauna can make this season on both ends of the court. - Karen Middleton
Up Close With Shauna Terry
What is your secret food craving?
I love ranch dressing.
If tomorrow’s headline was about you, what would it say?
Terry starts the worlds largest flash mob.
What is your favorite city to visit?
New York.
Describe yourself in one word.
Spontaneous.
What is your craziest ambition?
Dunking on someone in a game.
Who is the best dancer on the team?
Diamond.
What is your dream job?
Being a forensic scientist and working for the FBI.
What are your three most prized possessions?
My bank card (shopping), my phone and my bible.
Shauna Terry with assistant Professor in Social Work Rebecca Lasher
2010-11 Highlights • Played in 29 of 31 games • Tied with teammate Caitlin Hollified for blocks with 24. • Averaged 1.6 points and 2.9 rebounds per game.
LINK TO FULL BIO
Career Highs Points: 6 (UNCG, 01/03/11) Rebounds: 12 (College of Charleston, 01/05/11) FG Made: 2 , 2x (last vs. Furman, 01/16/11) FG Attempts: 6 ( (UNCG, 01/03/11) 3-pt. Made: 3-pt. Attempts: FT Made: 2, 2x (last vs. Elon, 01/29/11) FT Attempts: 4 (UNCG, 01/03/11) Assists: 1, 3x (last vs. Georgia Southern, 01/14/11) Steals: 1(Charlotte, 12/08/10) Blocks: 3, 2x (last vs. Appalachian State, 01/31/11) Minutes Played: 28 (College of Charleston, 01/08/11) Miscellaneous Double Figure Scoring: Double Figure Rebounding: 1 Double-Doubles: Games Led WCU in Scoring: Games Led WCU in Rebounding: 4
Western Carolina Women's Basketball Individual Career History Terry, Shauna Season
2010-11 TOTAL
gp-gs
29-0 29-0
min/avg
311/10.7 311/10.7
Total fg-fga
17-62 17-62
pct
.274 .274
3-Point fg-fga
0-0 0-0
pct
.000 .000
F-Throws ft-fta pct
13-32 13-32
.406 .406
off
32 32
Rebounds def tot
51 51
83 83
avg
2.9 2.9
pf
43 43
fo
1 1
ast
5 5
to
16 16
blk
24 24
stl
5 5
Scoring pts avg
47 1.6 47 1.6
#23
Guard • 5-7 • Sophomore Raleigh, N.C. Wake Forest Rolesville HS
Rena Wakama
Rena is coming off of a very good freshman year where she gained a great deal of experience. We are excited to see her continued growth at the point position this season. Rena loves to play, is a scoring point guard, and put in many hours in the gym this summer. Rena has the ability to take even bigger strides this year for our team on both ends of the floor. - Karen Middleton
Up Close With Rena Wakama
I chose to play at WCU because..
I love the school and the people.
If tomorrow’s headline was about you, what would it say?
Rena Wakama saves the day.
What is your most secret food craving?
Cucumbers.
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
Very, very caring and quiet.
What is one extreme thing you would do?
Skydive.
Who is the messiest player on the team?
I am.
What is your dream job?
Play basketball professionally.
What are your three most prized possessions?
Cellphone, PS3 and car.
Rena Wakama with Faculty Athletic Rep. Dr. Gibbs Knotts.
2010-11 Highlights • Named to the 2011 Southern Conference AllFreshman Team • Played in 30 games and started 14 • Led the team in scoring twice • Scored in double figures eight times • Ranked fourth on the team averaging 5.9 points per game
LINK TO FULL BIO
Career Highs Points: 15, 2x (last vs. Georgia Southern, 02/14/11) Rebounds: 8 (Wofford, 02/21/11) FG Made: 6 (Georgia Southern, 02/14/11) FG Attempts: 11 (Davidson, 02/05/11) 3-pt. Made: 4 (Davidson, 01/05/11) 3-pt. Attempts: 15 (Elon, 01/29/11) FT Made: 8 (Elon, 01/29/11) FT Attempts: 9 (Elon, 01/29/11) Assists: 3, 4x (last vs. 4 Davidson, 02/05/11) Steals: 3 (Georgia Southern, 02/14/11) Blocks: 1, 2x (last vs. Chattanooga, 01/22/11) Minutes Played: 37 (Davidson, 02/05/11) Miscellaneous Double Figure Scoring: 8 Double Figure Rebounding: Double-Doubles: Games Led WCU in Scoring: 2 Games Led WCU in Rebounding: 1
Western Carolina Women's Basketball Individual Career History Wakama, Rena Season
2010-11 TOTAL
gp-gs
30-14 30-14
min/avg
594/19.8 594/19.8
Total fg-fga
58-199 58-199
pct
.291 .291
3-Point fg-fga
23-78 23-78
pct
.295 .295
F-Throws ft-fta pct
38-61 38-61
.623 .623
off
15 15
Rebounds def tot
51 51
66 66
avg
2.2 2.2
pf
67 67
fo
0 0
ast
39 39
to
98 98
blk
2 2
stl
19 19
Scoring pts avg
177 5.9 177 5.9
The newly constructed fountain near the University Center is a great meeting spot.
FRESHMEN
#32
Guard/Forward • 6-1 • Freshman Kingsport, Tenn. Sullivan South HS Mak gives us size at the guard position and a lights out shooting touch. Her versatility to hit the long range “3” and use her size to post on the block will create many opportunities for our team. She knows and understands the game very well and is a tremendous worker. - Karen Middleton
Makensey Campbell
LINK TO FULL BIO
Up Close With
Makensey Campbell
What will you be doing 10 years from now?
Owning a dental practice in Tennessee.
What is the coolest thing about WCU?
The beautiful campus.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
When people correct my accent.
Name one thing people would be surprised to know about you.
I wish I could knit.
When you were younger, what player did you pretend to be?
Diana Taurasi.
What super power would you like to have?
The ability to read minds.
Describe yourself in one word.
Driven.
What are your three most prized possessions?
Bible, car and phone.
Makensey Campbell with WCU Chancellor Dr. David Belcher Up Close With Nancy Thacker
#12
Guard • 5-7 • Freshman Marietta, Ga. Marietta HS We are very excited about the addition of Molly to our team. She is an extremely hard worker and very competitive. I have been very impressed with how eager Molly is to learn and help our team in any way she can. - Karen Middleton
Molly Fagan
LINK TO FULL BIO
Up Close With Molly Fagan
I chose to play at WCU because..
I couldn’t function without basketbal in my life.
What is the coolest thing about WCU?
It may snow here.
What is one extreme thing you would do?
Hillbilly hand fishing.
One place in the world you like to help?
Costa Rica.
What would you be doing if not playing basketball?
I would probably just be a student.
What is your secret food craving?
Bananas, but thats not really a secret.
What is your favorite city to visit?
Quebec, Canada.
Describe yourself in one word.
Blessed.
Molley Fagan with Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance Stacey Miller. Up Close With Nancy Thacker
#20
Guard • 5-8 • Freshman Charlotte, N.C. Charlotte Catholic HS Ali brings to our team an all-around game and great work ethic. She has a good feel and knowledge on the court and will help bring much needed depth to our perimeter. We are excited about Ali’s future as a Catamount. - Karen Middleton
Ali Lane
LINK TO FULL BIO
Up Close With Ali Lane
What will you be doing in 10 years?
Hopefully coaching basketball and working as a physical therapist.
What is your dream job?
College Coach.
I chose Western Carolina because.
I felt like I fit in with the players.
What is your most secret food craving?
Peanut butter and marshmallow fluff crackers.
What is your craziest ambition?
Go parasailing.
What is your favorite city to visit?
Montego Bay, Jamaica.
What superpower would you like to have?
Teleportation.
What are your three most prized possessions?
My phone, my shoes and my food.
Ali Lane with Strength and Conditioning Coach Jeff Pittman. Up Close With Nancy Thacker
#43
Center • 6-5 • Redshirt Freshman
Franklin, N.C. Franklin HS Mel brings our team a special dimension with her size and mobility. During her red shirt season, she worked hard through extra skill workouts and put in time with our strength and conditioning staff. We are excited to see Mel work hard in practice and make an impact in the post this year. - Karen Middleton
Melanie Stewart
LINK TO FULL BIO
Up Close With Melanie Stewart
I chose to play at Western Carolina because....
I love the team, they are like my second family.
If tomorrow’s headline was about you, what would it say?
Melanie Stewart wins banana eating contest.
What is your dream job?
African safari guide.
What is your secret food craving?
Brownies.
Name one thing people would be surprised to know about you.
I am a good cook.
What do you enjoy most about playing baskeball on the collegiate level? What superpower would you like to have?
The sense of togetherness and team work.
What are your three most prized possessions?
My cell phone, my car and my basketball.
Superspeed, so I can pass the conditioning test easily.
Stewart with WCU Dining Hall Staff Member Jan O’Brien. UpMelanie Close With Nancy Thacker
#14
Guard • 5-9 • Freshman Max Meadows, Va. Fort Chiswell HS Nancy is a worker and an intelligent basketball player. She has good vision as a passer and good touch as a shooter. Nancy will play the point and two position for us and become a very dependable player on the court for our team. - Karen Middleton
Nancy Thacker
LINK TO FULL BIO
Up Close With Nancy Thacker
I chose to play at Western Carolina because....
It felt like home. I was supposed to be here.
What is the coolest thing about Western Carolina University?
The campus... it’s beautiful.
What is your most secret food craving?
Dark chocolate.
What is your craziest ambition?
To travel around the world and visit historic landmarks and places.
Name one thing people would be surprised to know about you.
My favorite piece of music is “Summertime” by George Gershwin.
Describe yourself in one word.
Determined or stubborn.
What superpower would you like to have?
Be able to fly.
What is your favorite food?
Spaghetti, ice cream, donuts, there are just too many.
Nancy Thacker with Dr. Winford Gordon, Experimental Psychologist of Learning and Cognition.
Up Close With Nancy Thacker
Karen Middleton Head Coach
Up Close With Karen Middleton
What is the best thing about WCU?
It is definetly the people. Everyone is so friendly and supportive.
What is your favorite snack?
Chips and salsa and Diet Pepsi.
What most impresses you about the team this year?
We have the fire and togetherness to make it a special year.
Do you have any hobbies?
I enjoy reading, working out and watching sports on TV.
When you were younger, what player did you pretend to be?
Larry Bird.
Who are your coaching mentors?
Nancy Wilson and Tara VanDerveer.
Describe yourself in three words.
Caring, determined and dependable.
Name one thing people would be surprised to know about you.
I drove a bus in high school. It was the afternoon pick up for kindergarten.
Middleton Notes Education: South Carolina, 1991, BA Elementary Education/ 1993, MA Physical Eduction Coaching Experience • South Carolina, Volunteer Assistant Coach (1991-92) • South Carolina, Assistant Coach (1992-94) • Eastern Washington University, Assistant Coach (1994-97) • Stanford, Assistant Coach (1997-2007) • Illinois, Assistant Coach (2007-2009) • Western Carolina, Head Coach (2009-present) Championships: • at South Carolina (Player, Metro Conf. Championship, 1988) • at Stanford (Asst. Coach, 8 PAC-10, 10 Titles - 1997-2007) Playing Experience: • College: South Carolina, 1987-91 Notables: • Helped coach three Kodak All-Americans at Stanford • Helped coach two PAC-10 Players of the Year • Helped coach over 24 players play professionally
LINK TO FULL BIO
I O
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G
O R P
Karen Middleton has coached and developed some of the best players in the world. From the WNBA to Euro Leagues to USA Basketball…...The list goes on and on. 26 PLAYERS HAVE GONE ON TO PLAY PROFESSIONAL BALL. The most recent: Candice Wiggins—Minnesota Lynx Nicole Powell—New York Liberty Jayne Appel—San Antonio Silver Stars
TrĂŠka McMillian Assistant Coach LINK TO FULL BIO
Up Close With Tre’ka McMillian
What is the best thing about WCU?
The team, the mountains and the staff.
What is your favorite snack?
Kettlecorn.
What most impresses you about the team this year?
Togetherness.
What is your favorite place to visit?
Minneapolis.
Name one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I like spending time by myself.
Who are your coaching mentors?
Michael Powell (HS coach); Nancy Wilson (college coach).
Favorite quote?
“Enjoy the Journey.”
If you weren’t coaching, what would you be doing?
Business owner.
Jonelle Streed Assistant Coach LINK TO FULL BIO
Up Close With Jonelle Streed
What is the best thing about WCU?
I love the vision of our program and the direction we are moving.
What is your favorite snack?
Popcorn.
What most impresses you about the team this year?
The way they get along, the way they are attacking challenges, the way they are getting in extra work and want to be great.
Do you have any hobbies?
I enjoy writing, traveling to new places, taking classes at the rec center and finding new Catamounts.
When you were younger, what player did you pretend to be?
CoCo and Kelly Miller.
Describe yourself in three words.
Bananas, Energetic and motivated.
Favorite quote?
“We may lose and we may win, but we will never be here again.�
Favorite place on campus?
The tree covered area behind the Balsam/Blue Ridge arch.
Hillary Beck Assistant Coach LINK TO FULL BIO
Up Close With Hillary Beck
What is the best thing about WCU?
The staff and players I work with on a daily basis.
What is your favorite snack?
Parmesan goldfish.
What is your favorite place to visit?
My parent’s house.
Do you have any hobbies?
Anything outdoors, hiking, camping, etc.
When you were younger, what player did you pretend to be?
Jamila Wideman.
Name one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I can cook.
Who are your coaching mentors?
Karen Middleton, Jessica Smith and Charlie Hall.
Describe yourself in three words.
Creative, caring and stubborn.
2011-12 ROSTER Numerical Roster
#
2 3 5 10 11 12 14 20 21 22 23 32 33 34 43
Name
Caitlin Hollifield Laura Sanchez Janae’ McKinney Crystal Riley Diamond Hunnicutt Molly Fagan Nancy Thacker Ali Lane Alex Abraham Kaila’Shea Menendez Rena Wakama Makensey Campbell Kristen Lyon Shauna Terry Melanie Stewart
Ht.
Pos.
Cl.
6-1 6-1 5-10 5-4 5-10 5-8 5-9 5-8 6-0 5-8 5-7 6-1 5-9 6-2 6-5
F F G/F PG F/G G G G F G G G/F G/F F C
SR SR R-JR JR R-JR FR FR FR SO SR SO FR SO SO R-FR
Head Coach: Karen Middleton Assistant Coaches: Tréka McMillian, Jonelle Streed, Hillary Beck
Hometown (Previous School / High School)
Knoxville, Tenn. (Alabama/Powell HS) Milwaukee, Wisc. (Lincoln Trail College) Columbus, Ga. (Kendrick HS) West Memphis, Ark. (Southwest CC/West Memphis HS) Jonesboro, Ga. (Landmark Christian School) Marietta, Ga. (Marietta HS) Max Meadows, Va. (Fort Chiswell HS) Charlotte, N.C. (Charlotte Catholic HS) Stone Mountain, Ga. (Paideia School) Raleigh, N.C. (Wakefield HS) Raleigh, N.C. (Wake Forest Rolesville HS) Kingsport, Tenn. (Sullivan South HS) Durham, N.C. (Jordan HS) Henderson, N.C. (Southern Vance HS) Franklin, N.C. (Franklin HS)
SUPPORT STAFF
Mary Jackaway Athletic Trainer
Hannah Prince Manager
Carly Sprouse Manager
Nicole Thigpen Manager
2011-12 CATAMOUNTS
CATAMOUNT TRAVELS HAWAII
A K S ALA
CATAMOUNT TRAVELS
HAWAII
YELL OWS
TONE
CATAMOUNT CHAMPIONS Western Carolina women’s basketball won its first Southern Conference regular season title in 2007. The Catamounts won a school record 15 Southern Conference games and tied with Chattanooga for the regular season title. WCU also earned its first-ever Number one seed in the Southern Conference Tournament. WCU went on to play in the post-season
2005 Western Carolina women’s basketball won its first Southern Conference Tournament title, in school history, in 2005. The Catamounts outlasted #5 Georgia Southern, 97-95 in two overtimes to earn the title and its first trip to the NCAA Tournament. WCU also became the first team in SoCon history to reach and win the tournamet after playing in the first round.
2007
CATAMOUNT CHAMPIONS
2009 It took three overtimes, 101 points and clutch free throws down the stretch, but Western Carolina women’s basketball weathered it all, to capture the 2009 Southern Conference Tournament Title, the second tournament title in school history. The No. 3 seeded Western Carolina defeated No. 5 seed College of Charleston 101-87 in the come from behind victory. The game was the third-highest scoring game in SoCon Tournament history. Western Carolina’s 101 points was also just the third 100-point game in tournament history. It was also the first time a SoCon Tournament final game went into triple overtime. Western Carolina earned a 13 seed in the NCAA Tournament, the highest seed in school history. The Catamounts went on to face No. 4 seed Vanderbilt in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.
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PLAYER DEVELOPMENT At Western Carolina, our staff has had tremendous experience and success in helping players grow as basketball players. We take great pride in helping our players improve and take their game to another level through individual skill work, weekly video sessions, and competitive position group work. Our staff provides fundamental guidelines, specific instruction, and goals setting for each of the members of our team to insure our players improve their game from year to year.
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SOUTHERN CONFERENCE The Southern Conference is a national leader in emphasizing the development of the student-athlete and in helping to build lifelong leaders and role models. The Southern Conference has been on the forefront of innovation and originality in developing creative solutions to address issues facing intercollegiate athletics. From establishing the first conference basketball tournament (1921), tackling the issue of freshmen eligibility (1922), developing women’s championships (1984) and becoming the first conference to install the three-point goal in basketball (1980), the Southern Conference has been a pioneer. The Southern Conference is the nation’s fifth-oldest NCAA Division I collegiate athletic association. Only the Big Ten (1896), the Missouri Valley (1907), the Pacific 10 (1915) and the Southwestern Athletic (1920) conferences are older in terms of origination.
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