Going into the Combine this past weekend, I was unsure of what to expect. I didn't know any other players that were going to be attending, and wasn't sure how many coaches and agents were going to be watching the show. After checking in on Friday and coming in contact with some of the other players, I was anxious to see how I was going to measure up against players from some of the best conferences in the nation, and was reassured knowing there were a few other players from mid major conferences as well.
The first part of the combine consisted of a 3-minute skills drill; speed, vertical and agility testing; and shooting drills. I performed well in each of the drills and felt at ease knowing I compared well to the other athletes. That afternoon we scrimmaged for the first time, and I learned that team Switzerland (my team) was one of the top two teams in the combine. I felt confident knowing that I was thought of as one of the top players there so when the scrimmages started I did not feel nervous in any way, and played well. Our team was very talented, and it was an incredible experience playing with the talent that I was able to play with. On Saturday we played two games, which concluded the combine.
While at the combine, I learned more about the process of becoming a professional women's basketball player. It was amazing to see all of the potential professionals in the room, and I was so glad to be included in the group. I have dreamed of becoming a professional basketball player for as long as I can remember, and I am truly blessed to know that this dream may soon be my reality. This experience will be one that I will never forget.
The combine was conveniently located in Denver CO, and I was lucky to have my parents watching my performance at the combine. My mom and I drove for 10
hours and she drove the entire way (bless her heart). We stopped at many gas stations along the way so that I could run around and keep the blood circulation flowing through my legs. Who knew that the 10 hour drive would be the most exasperating of the trip! But it was all part of the great memory! I was also one of very few with their college coaches in attendance, and I appreciated the support from both my coaches and my parents. My parents and I enjoyed our short time together, especially in the record breaking 80 degree weather! Unfortunatley we were not able to stay and watch the games at the Final Four, but did walk down the 16th street mall. It was amazing to see all of the support for Women's Basketball in Denver and it was a great environment for the tournament this year. The overall experience was very special to me and I am so lucky to have had the opportunity. That's the size of Griner's shoe as compared to mine by the way. Ha!
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