Athlete Spotlight: Senior guard Raeshel Contreras
Senior guard Raeshel Contreras, from San Fransisco, Calif., scored a career-high 32 points against South Dakota State. She was also named Coyotes Athlete of the week Jan. 18 for averaging 24.5 points against North Dakota State and SDSU.
Alanna Schmeichel: Why did you come to USD?
Raeshel Contreras: On my visit I instantly had a connection with the team. After visiting with the team and eating with the coaches I had that feeling — this is good and the right fit.
AS: How did it feel to have a career-high against the Jackrabbits?
RC: It felt good, but it didn’t feel as good as winning the game against them. I don’t get really excited about points. But I had a mindset for this game, because last time I saw them I think I was like 2-13, so I knew I needed to focus, take my time on my shots and not force anything.
AS: How important is it to be a leader?
RC: It is very important because when times are tough the younger players are going to turn to you because you are the oldest person. It is important to stay levelheaded and play with a positive attitude because they will follow. I just try to lead by example.
AS: What are your individual goals?
RC: I really want to stay consistent offensively and defensively. The main thing is that I don’t want whomever I am guarding to score. I also want to make the right plays and the right time on defense.
AS: How are you working on being more consistent?
RC: I just try to get in the gym more on my own and being smarter in the game. When I take smarter shots and smarter plays the consistency is there, rather than trying to rush and force things.
AS: What are the team goals?
RC: We want to win the Summit League, become a better defensive team as a whole and not let the little games slip away. We let a few slip away, but we learn from them and we come back hard.
AS: Why is the team working on being a better defensive team?
RC: Honestly, defense wins games. Last year we weren’t the best defensive team and we took that as disrespect. So we are just working on it.
AS: What impact has coach Williams had on you?
RC: She is one of the best coaches I’ve had. She connects with you on another level off the court. She is a coach, friend and a mom.
AS: What is your favorite part about basketball?
RC: Aside from winning, I really like when everyone is on the same page and when the team grinds out wins.
(Senior Raeshel Contreras backs down a defender during the Coyotes 93-70 victory over Oral Roberts Jan. 31 at the DakotaDome. Austin Ashlock / The Volante)
