2011-12 women's basketball online guide

Western Carolina University

Having fun while we win

The alcove of the Blue Ridge dorm is a great place to meet.

SENIORS

CAITLIN HOLLIFIELD

Forward • 6-0 • SeniorKnoxville, Tenn. Alabama • Powell HS

#2This 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 WithCaitlin Hollifield

I chose to play at WCU because..

What is your craziest ambition?

Name one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

What is one extreme thing you would do?

Who is the best singer on the team?

What is your favorite food?

When you were younger, what player did you pretend to be?

One place in the world you would like to help?

Uganda to help make a difference in the “invisible children’s” lives down there.

Chamique Holdsclaw

My mom’s lasagna.

Janae’ (McKinney) because she mimes with the gospel choir.

What is your secret food craving?

of the family type atmosphere of the program and my teammates.

Milk Duds

To go backpacking in the Amazon.

I have a legit spider collection.

Skydiving or scuba diving.

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

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/hollifield_caitlin00.html

Career HighsPoints: 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)MiscellaneousDouble Figure Scoring: 23Double Figure Rebounding: 9Double-Doubles: 4Games Led WCU in Scoring: 10Games Led WCU in Rebounding: 28

Career TotalsPoints: 472Rebounds: 341FG Made: 1703-Pt Made: 12FT Made: 120Steals: 56Assists: 56Blocks: 44

#22Guard • 5-8• SeniorRaleigh, 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 WithKaila’ Shea Menendez


What will you be doing in 10 years?


Who is the best dancer on the team?


What are you three most prized possession?

What would you be doing if not playing basketball?

Studying abroad.

Family pictures, cell phone and jewelry given to me by my grandmother.

Pizza and chicken alfredo.

Melanie Stewart.

If tomorrow’s headline was about you, what would it say?

of the family atmosphere.

Kaila’Shea Menendez ... She did it!!!

I hope to become the director of a health and fitness center and mentor youth.

Sheryl Swoops.

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

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/menendez_kailashea00.html

Western Carolina Women's BasketballIndividual Career History

Menendez, Kaila'Shea

Total 3-Point F-Throws Rebounds ScoringSeason gp-gs min/avg fg-fga pct fg-fga pct ft-fta pct off def tot avg pf fo ast to blk stl pts avg2008-09 32-0 453/14.2 55-145 . 3 7 9 9-36 . 2 5 0 46-56 . 8 2 1 22 40 62 1.9 53 0 21 49 0 16 165 5.22009-10 30-9 647/21.6 85-198 . 4 2 9 10-30 . 3 3 3 96-118 . 8 1 4 23 42 65 2.2 71 2 33 71 4 16 276 9.22010-11 31-31 836/27.0 102-274 . 3 7 2 21-61 . 3 4 4 120-162 . 7 4 1 44 79 123 4.0 86 2 29 104 7 24 345 11.1TOTAL 93-40 1936/20.8 242-617 . 3 9 2 40-127 . 3 1 5 262-336 . 7 8 0 89 161 250 2.7 210 4 83 224 11 56 786 8.5

Career HighsPoints: 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)

MiscellaneousDouble Figure Scoring: 34Double Figure Rebounding: 0Double-Doubles: 0Games Led WCU in Scoring: 18Games Led WCU in Rebounding: 4Games with 20+ Points: 7

Career TotalsPoints: 785Rebounds: 250FG Made: 2423-pt Made: 40FT Made: 262Steals: 56Assists: 83Blocks: 11

#3Forward • 6-1 • SeniorMilwaukee, 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 WithLaura Sanchez

What is your secret food crazing?

What superpower would you like to have?



What are your three most prized possessions?

What is your dream job?

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.

To play basketball.

Just one, my grandmother’s necklace.

Diamond.

What do you enjoy most about playing basketball on the collegiate level?

Crab Legs.

The intensity and everyone has skill.

To fly.

Steak.

Laura Sanchez with Professor Holly Moss

LINK TO FULL BIO

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

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/sanchez_laura00.html

Career HighsPoints: 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)MiscellaneousGames Led WCU in Scoring: 1

Career TotalsPoints: 27Rebounds: 36FG Made: 93-pt Made: 4FT Made: 5Steals: 5Assists: 4Blocks: 1


Sanchez, Laura

Total 3-Point F-Throws Rebounds ScoringSeason gp-gs min/avg fg-fga pct fg-fga pct ft-fta pct off def tot avg pf fo ast to blk stl pts avg2010-11 29-0 225/7.8 9-41 . 2 2 0 4-14 . 2 8 6 5-6 . 8 3 3 8 28 36 1.2 24 0 4 14 1 5 27 0.9TOTAL 29-0 225/7.8 9-41 . 2 2 0 4-14 . 2 8 6 5-6 . 8 3 3 8 28 36 1.2 24 0 4 14 1 5 27 0.9

Members of the Catamount women’s basketball team enjoy a break at Starbucks on campus.

JUNIORS

#11Forward • 5-10 • R-JuniorJonesboro, 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 WithDiamond Hunnicutt


What is your favorite city to visit?



I chose to play at Western Carolina because...



Traveling and cool gear.

Being a TV personality for entertianment news.

great team chemistry and communication dept. is top notch.

Cheese.

What will you be doing 10 years from now?

Become the richest person in the world.

Working on a production crew for CNN in Atlanta or another city.

Los Angeles.

My daddy.

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

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/hunnicutt_diamond00.html


Hunnicutt, Diamond

Total 3-Point F-Throws Rebounds ScoringSeason gp-gs min/avg fg-fga pct fg-fga pct ft-fta pct off def tot avg pf fo ast to blk stl pts avg2008-09 32-0 306/9.6 22-57 . 3 8 6 0-3 . 0 0 0 24-39 . 6 1 5 25 34 59 1.8 35 2 3 23 4 14 68 2.12009-10 3-0 12/4.0 1-3 . 3 3 3 1-1 1.000 0-0 . 0 0 0 1 1 2 0.7 2 0 0 2 0 0 3 1.02010-11 31-25 676/21.8 39-143 . 2 7 3 10-29 . 3 4 5 29-49 . 5 9 2 38 60 98 3.2 47 1 19 45 3 27 117 3.8TOTAL 66-25 994/15.1 62-203 . 3 0 5 11-33 . 3 3 3 53-88 . 6 0 2 64 95 159 2.4 84 3 22 70 7 41 188 2.8

Career HighsPoints: 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)MiscellaneousDouble Figure Scoring: 3Double Figure Rebounding: 1Double-Doubles: 0Games Led WCU in Scoring: 1Games Led WCU in Rebounding: 5Games with 20+ Points: 0

Career TotalsPoints: 168Rebounds: 159FG Made: 623-pt Made: 11FT Made: 53Assists: 22Steals:41Blocks: 7

#5Forward • 5-10 • R-JuniorColumbus, Ga.Kendrick HS 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

Janae’ McKinney

Up Close WithJanae’ McKinney


When you were younger, who did you pretned to be?



Describe yourself in one word.

What do you enjoy most about playing basketball on collegiate level?


Snowboarding.

Traveling.

Unique.

Banana pudding.


of the area and the team.

McKinney leads WCU in three point attempts made.

Michael Jordan.

Diamond.

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

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/mckinney_janae00.html

Career HighsPoints: 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)

MiscellaneousDouble Figure Scoring: 5Double Figure Rebounding: 4Double-Doubles: 3Games Led WCU in Scoring: 1Games Led WCU in Rebounding: 14Career TotalsPoints: 276Rebounds: 286FG Made: 100FT Made: 76Steals: 49Assists: 14Blocks: 4


McKinney, Janae'

Total 3-Point F-Throws Rebounds ScoringSeason gp-gs min/avg fg-fga pct fg-fga pct ft-fta pct off def tot avg pf fo ast to blk stl pts avg2009-10 27-9 421/15.6 41-87 . 4 7 1 0-0 . 0 0 0 22-36 . 6 1 1 37 52 89 3.3 40 0 2 19 1 13 104 3.92010-11 31-31 811/26.2 59-156 . 3 7 8 0-0 . 0 0 0 54-99 . 5 4 5 94 103 197 6.4 61 1 12 56 3 36 172 5.5TOTAL 58-40 1232/21.2 100-243 . 4 1 2 0-0 . 0 0 0 76-135 . 5 6 3 131 155 286 4.9 101 1 14 75 4 49 276 4.8

#10Guard • 5-4 • JuniorWest 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

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/riley_crystal00.html

Up Close WithCrystal Riley

What is the coolest about WCU?






I chose to play at Western Caro-lina because...

it has everything to offer: great coaching staff, nice facilities and unique programs.

To fly.

Ivory Latta.

Strawberries.


My teammates

That I am soft spoken but can be very loud.

Chinese.

Blessed.

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

#21Forward • 6-0 • SophomoreStone Mountain, Ga.Paideia School

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

Alex Abraham

Up Close WithAlex Abraham






What do you enjoy most about playing on the collegiate level?


My cat and a family heirloom ring from each side of my family.

The constant competition, you can never relax or take a day off.

Genuine.

Chinese and pumpkin bread.

What is the coolest thing about Western Carolina University?

Working in the Peace Corps.

The sense of community.

To learn to fly a plane.

I would like the ability to time travel.

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

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/abraham_alex00.html


Abraham, Alex


Career HighsPoints: 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)MiscellaneousGames Led WCU in Rebounding: 1

#33Guard/Forward 5-9 • SophomoreDurham, N.C.Jordan HS

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

Kristen Lyon

Up Close WithKristen Lyon

I choose to play at WCU because..


What is your most secret food craving?

What is the coolest thing about WCU?




The amount of discipline it provokes.

Married, working as a counseling psychologist and doing ministry.

Chicken nuggets.

The fountain.


I love the campus, people and coaches.

Michael Jordan.

Flight.

Snack Pack Jello.

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

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/lyon_kristen00.html


Lyon, Kristen


Career HighsPoints: 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)

#34Forward • 6-0 • SophomoreHenderson, 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 WithShauna Terry








My bank card (shopping), my phone and my bible.

Being a forensic scientist and working for the FBI.

Diamond.

Dunking on someone in a game.


I love ranch dressing.

Terry starts the worlds largest flash mob.

New York.

Spontaneous.

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

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/terry_shauna00.html


Terry, Shauna


Career HighsPoints: 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)MiscellaneousDouble Figure Scoring: Double Figure Rebounding: 1Double-Doubles: Games Led WCU in Scoring: Games Led WCU in Rebounding: 4

#23Guard • 5-7 • SophomoreRaleigh, 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 WithRena Wakama



What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?


Who is the messiest player on the team?



Cellphone, PS3 and car.

Play basketball professionally.

I am.

Skydive.


I love the school and the people.

Rena Wakama saves the day.

Cucumbers.

Very, very caring and quiet.

Rena Wakama with Faculty Athletic Rep. Dr. Gibbs Knotts.

2010-11 Highlights• Named to the 2011 Southern Conference All-Freshman 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

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/wakama_rena00.html


Wakama, Rena


Career HighsPoints: 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)MiscellaneousDouble Figure Scoring: 8Double Figure Rebounding: Double-Doubles: Games Led WCU in Scoring: 2Games Led WCU in Rebounding: 1

The newly constructed fountain near the University Center is a great meeting spot.

FRESHMEN

#32Guard/Forward • 6-1 • FreshmanKingsport, Tenn.Sullivan South HS

Makensey Campbell

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

LINK TO FULL BIO

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/campbell_makensey00.html

Up Close WithMakensey Campbell

What will you be doing 10 years from now?

What is your biggest pet peeve?

Name one thing people would be surprised to know about you.


What super power would you like to have?



Bible, car and phone.

Driven.

The ability to read minds.

Diana Taurasi.


Owning a dental practice in Tennessee.

The beautiful campus.

When people correct my accent.

I wish I could knit.

Up Close WithNancy Thacker

Makensey Campbell with WCU Chancellor Dr. David Belcher

#12Guard • 5-7 • FreshmanMarietta, Ga.Marietta HS

Molly Fagan

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

LINK TO FULL BIO

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/fagan_molly00.html

Up Close WithMolly Fagan



One place in the world you like to help?

What would you be doing if not playing basketball?



Describe yourself in one word. Blessed.

Quebec, Canada.

Bananas, but thats not really a secret.

I would probably just be a student.


I couldn’t function withoutbasketbal in my life.

It may snow here.

Hillbilly hand fishing.

Costa Rica.


Molley Fagan with Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance Stacey Miller.

#20Guard • 5-8 • FreshmanCharlotte, N.C.Charlotte Catholic HSAli 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

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/lane_ali00.html

Up Close WithAli Lane


I chose Western Carolina because.






My phone, my shoes and my food.

Teleportation.

Montego Bay, Jamaica.

Go parasailing.


Hopefully coaching basketball and working as a physical therapist.

College Coach.

I felt like I fit in with the players.

Peanut butter and marshmallow fluff crackers.


Ali Lane with Strength and Conditioning Coach Jeff Pittman.

#43Center • 6-5 • Redshirt FreshmanFranklin, N.C.Franklin HS

Melanie Stewart LINK TO FULL BIO

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

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/stewart_melanie00.html

Up Close WithMelanie Stewart

I chose to play at Western Carolina because....




What do you enjoy most about playing baskeball on the collegiate level?What superpower would you like to have?


My cell phone, my car and my basketball.

Superspeed, so I can pass the conditioning test easily.

The sense of togetherness and team work.

I am a good cook.


I love the team, they are like my second family.

Melanie Stewart wins banana eat-ing contest.

African safari guide.

Brownies.


Melanie Stewart with WCU Dining Hall Staff Member Jan O’Brien.

#14Guard • 5-9 • FreshmanMax Meadows, Va.Fort Chiswell HSNancy 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

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/thacker_nancy00.html



I chose to play at Western Caro-lina because....






What is your favorite food? Spaghetti, ice cream, donuts, there are just too many.

Be able to fly.

Determined or stubborn.

My favorite piece of music is “Summertime” by George Gershwin.

What is the coolest thing about Western Carolina University?

It felt like home. I was supposed to be here.

The campus... it’s beautiful.

Dark chocolate.

To travel around the world and visit historic landmarks and places.

Nancy Thacker with Dr. Winford Gordon, Experimental Psychologist of Learning and Cognition.

Karen Middleton

Head Coach

Up Close WithKaren Middleton

What is the best thing about WCU?

What most impresses you about the team this year?

Do you have any hobbies?


Who are your coaching mentors?

Describe yourself in three words.


I drove a bus in high school. It was the afternoon pick up for kindergarten.

Caring, determined and dependable.

Nancy Wilson and Tara VanDerveer.

Larry Bird.

What is your favorite snack?

It is definetly the people. Everyone is so friendly and supportive.

Chips and salsa and Diet Pepsi.

We have the fire and togetherness to make it a special year.

I enjoy reading, working out and watching sports on TV.

Middleton NotesEducation: South Carolina, 1991, BA Elementary Education/1993, MA Physical EductionCoaching 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, 1987-91Notables:• 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

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/middleton_karen00.html

GOIN’ PRO

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 LynxNicole Powell—New York LibertyJayne Appel—San Antonio Silver Stars

Tréka McMillianAssistant Coach

LINK TO FULL BIO

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/mcmillian_treka03.html

Up Close WithTre’ka McMillian



What is your favorite place to visit?



Favorite quote?

If you weren’t coaching, what would you be doing?

Business owner.

“Enjoy the Journey.”

Michael Powell (HS coach); Nancy Wilson (college coach).

I like spending time by myself.


The team, the mountains and the staff.

Kettlecorn.

Togetherness.

Minneapolis.

Jonelle StreedAssistant Coach

LINK TO FULL BIO

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/streed_jonelle00.html

Up Close WithJonelle Streed





Describe yourself in three words.

Favorite quote?

Favorite place on campus? The tree covered area behind the Balsam/Blue Ridge arch.

“We may lose and we may win, but we will never be here again.”

Bananas, Energetic and motivated.

CoCo and Kelly Miller.


I love the vision of our program and the direction we are moving.

Popcorn.

The way they get along, the way they are attacking challenges, the way they are getting in extra work and want to be great.

I enjoy writing, traveling to new places, taking classes at the rec center and finding new Catamounts.

Hillary Beck

Assistant Coach

LINK TO FULL BIO

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/mtt/beck_hillary00.html

Up Close WithHillary Beck


What is your favorite place to visit?





Describe yourself in three words. Creative, caring and stubborn.

Karen Middleton, Jessica Smith and Charlie Hall.

I can cook.

Jamila Wideman.


The staff and players I work with on a daily basis.

Parmesan goldfish.

My parent’s house.

Anything outdoors, hiking, camping, etc.

2011-12 ROSTER

SUPPORT STAFF

Numerical Roster

# Name Ht. Pos. Cl. Hometown (Previous School / High School) 2 Caitlin Hollifield 6-1 F SR Knoxville, Tenn. (Alabama/Powell HS) 3 Laura Sanchez 6-1 F SR Milwaukee, Wisc. (Lincoln Trail College) 5 Janae’ McKinney 5-10 G/F R-JR Columbus, Ga. (Kendrick HS) 10 Crystal Riley 5-4 PG JR West Memphis, Ark. (Southwest CC/West Memphis HS) 11 Diamond Hunnicutt 5-10 F/G R-JR Jonesboro, Ga. (Landmark Christian School) 12 Molly Fagan 5-8 G FR Marietta, Ga. (Marietta HS) 14 Nancy Thacker 5-9 G FR Max Meadows, Va. (Fort Chiswell HS) 20 Ali Lane 5-8 G FR Charlotte, N.C. (Charlotte Catholic HS) 21 Alex Abraham 6-0 F SO Stone Mountain, Ga. (Paideia School) 22 Kaila’Shea Menendez 5-8 G SR Raleigh, N.C. (Wakefield HS) 23 Rena Wakama 5-7 G SO Raleigh, N.C. (Wake Forest Rolesville HS) 32 Makensey Campbell 6-1 G/F FR Kingsport, Tenn. (Sullivan South HS) 33 Kristen Lyon 5-9 G/F SO Durham, N.C. (Jordan HS) 34 Shauna Terry 6-2 F SO Henderson, N.C. (Southern Vance HS) 43 Melanie Stewart 6-5 C R-FR Franklin, N.C. (Franklin HS) Head Coach: Karen Middleton Assistant Coaches: Tréka McMillian, Jonelle Streed, Hillary Beck

Mary JackawayAthletic Trainer

Hannah PrinceManager

Carly SprouseManager

Nicole ThigpenManager

2011-12 CATAMOUNTS

ALASKA

HAWAIICATAMOUNT TRAVELS

YELLOWSTONEHAWAII

CATAMOUNT TRAVELS

CATAMOUNT CHAMPIONS

2005

2007

Western Carolina women’s basketball won its first South-ern 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.

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

http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/w-baskbl/spec-rel/030705aaa.html

CATAMOUNT CHAMPIONS

2009It 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.

THE CATAMOUNT FAN EXPEREIENCE

LOCKER ROOM

THE RAMSEY CENTER

THE RAMSEY CENTER

http://www.catamountsports.com/facilities/ramsey-regional-center.html

WEIGHT ROOM

TRAINING ROOM

VIDEO ROOM

ACADEMIC SERVICES

PLAYER DEVELOPMENTAt 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.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

ATHLETIC FACILITIES

BLUE RIDGE

CATAMOUNTSPORTS.COM

Follow us on Twitter and Facebook by following the links below

Your online home to follow all Catamount sports featuring game recaps, box scores, gametracker, video streaming, athlete profiles and more.

http://twitter.com/#!/catamounts

http://www.facebook.com/catamountsports

SOUTHERN CONFERENCEThe 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 ad-dress 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.

LINK FOR MORE INFORMATION

http://www.soconsports.com/SportSelect.dbml?&DB_OEM_ID=4000&SPID=1799&SPSID=22074

PAWS AROUND CAMPUS

http://www.catamountsports.com/athletic-dept/wcar-academic-services.html

http://www.catamountsports.com/athletic-dept/wcar-directory.html

http://www.catamountsports.com/ath-training/wcar-ath-training.html

http://www.catamountsports.com/compliance/wcar-compliance.html

http://www.wcu.edu/

http://www.catamountsports.com/ot/strength-conditioning.html

http://www.catamountsports.com/facilities/wcar-athletic-complex.html

http://www.jacksonnc.org/

2011-12 women's basketball online guide

Documents

fg attempts

ft attempts

family atmosphere

favorite food

competitive player

double figure rebounding

family pictures

family type atmosphere