Nia Flowers-Girls Basketball

Nia Flowers-Junior
Girls Basketball
 

                The duality of a student athlete can be challenging when transitioning from the classroom to the athletic field and vice versa.  Coaches often demand a competitive fiery spirit that runs contrary to the behavior one would expect from a student in a classroom setting.  Oswego East girls’ basketball player Nia Flowers manages to straddle this line with ease.

                As a transfer from Metea Valley, Nia has been a welcome addition to the team.  “Our team puzzle has to figure out ways to piece this together,” says head coach Abe Caretto, “and we are starting to realize that Nia can be that final piece that will help us win now, into the playoffs, and next year.” 

                Nia has provided both an offensive and defensive boost to this year’s girl’s squad.  She averages 10 plus points per contest, as well as 6 rebounds per game.  Nia’s unique balance of ball handling skills and strength give coach Caretto and the lady wolves a rare option at the guard position, and cause nightmare match-ups for their opposition. 

                Nia’s competitive spirit also adds a boost to the lady wolves in times of adversity, as well as a willingness to put the team ahead of her personal goals.  “She is very competitive and wants to win badly, which is something I want in all my players,” remarks Caretto.  He goes on to say that “Nia fit in right away by listening to her teammates, which showed that although Nia is very talented, she wants to get better and learn from others to help the team.”

                Some student athletes have difficulty turning off the competitive switch when they are in a classroom setting.  Nia takes those same skills that make her successful on the court into the classroom.  “Nia has such an uplifting personality and always has a smile on her face” says Krystina Lamorte, Nia’s English teacher.  Lamorte continues by saying “Nia’s strongest strengths as a student are having a positive attitude toward learning and being self-motivated.  She strives to do her personal best and is always a positive influence in class.”

                Nia’s future plans include studying English and trying to earn a basketball scholarship.  “I can see her playing at schools like Northern Illinois, ISU, and UIC at the moment.  Next year, she may get even better looks because many schools need a strong guard shooter like Nia” remarks Caretto.  Nia is hoping those looks do come next year and she has an opportunity to attend a large university like Michigan.