Smith proves her ‘love of the game’

JONATHAN BARNETT STAFF WRITER JEB724@CABRINI EDU

The women’s basketball team has been bringing its best this season with a group of talented and impressive players. One of these young stars is junior English and communication major Kayleen Smith.

As a freshman, Smith had the opportunity to play in 22 games. During the 2005-06 season she averaged 3.4 points and 2.9 rebounds per game. Smith also registered 13 assists and 14 steals and finished with 27 completed field goals.

After an impressive rookie year, Smith returned to play in 28 games her sophomore year, 27 of which she was in the starting line-up. She blew away her previous years’ statistics by leading the entire team in rebounds with an average of 6.9 per game. Smith ended the season in second place in scoring with an average of 8.6 points per contest.

Herenda said, “We are now fighting for a spot in the PAC tournament and we have the next three of five games at home. We really need our students and fans to come out and continue to make the Dixon Center a great homecourt advantage.”

“You just have to believe in yourself and your team,” Smith said. “You have to want it, put time in on the court and love the game if you want to be successful.”

During her 2006-07 Smith grabbed 57 offensive rebounds, 27 steals and blocked 16 shots. With already astonishing records, she entered the 2007-08 season with high expectations.

As of Jan. 29, the Cavaliers have tallied 12 wins out of their 16 games, giving them a .750 winning percentage. In the conference they currently hold one loss with an 8-1 record.

On Monday, Jan. 21 the Cavaliers hosted Rosemont College, leading to yet another win for the team. During that contest Smith led the team in both scoring and rebounds with 15 points and 14 rebounds.

Following Smith were teammates Alyssa Brady and Kate Walck, both sophomores. Brady recorded 10 points and three rebounds and Walck scored nine points and gained six rebounds.

The Cavaliers had an opportunity of a lifetime when they played the College of Notre Dame at Madison Square Garden. “It didn’t really hit me until I got there. I walked in and I felt this rush, it was so overwhelming,” Smith said.

During the match-up, Smith again led the team with a season-best of 21 points. This accomplishment marked the first time this season that an individual player recorded 20+ points. Smith was also able to grab five rebounds before the game’s end.

Smith and the team have another nine games before the first round of the PAC Championships. “We have a close-knit team, we like to have fun and win games; I can’t imagine my life without them,” Smith said.