Eugene weekly., March 21, 2013, Page 13, Image 13

Mercedes Russell
S
POWERING FORWARD
pringfield High School is saying goodbye to the number one women’s
basketball recruit in the nation, as determined by both ESPN and
Gatorade, as she finishes her final year and prepares for college life and a
competitive NCAA program.
At 6’ 5”, Mercedes Russell is a presence both on and off the court.
Next season, the Springfield Millers’ power forward is transplanting her roots
across the country to play for the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers, one
of the top collegiate women’s basketball programs in the country. “I’m excited.
I’ve lived here all my life so it’ll be different for me and I’ll get away from the
West Coast,” Russell says. “I’m ready for a change.”
The Tennessee program is a prominent one to say the least, having been a
contender in every single NCAA Women’s Division I Championship tournament
since the early ’80s. Russell will join an entire cast of skilled players.
“What separates her from a lot of other players is her work ethic and how
much she dedicates herself to the game,” says Springfield Head Coach Bill
Wagner. “I just see her taking off and I think she’ll be a game changer in the
women’s game.”
This past season, the Millers rounded out the season with a 24-4 overall
record, finishing sixth in the state. During a 5A semifinal game against
Hermiston, Russell recorded a triple-double, with 32 points, 14 rebounds and 12
blocks.
Wagner says Russell has made an impression beyond the court. “Mercedes
is a person of such a high standard of character,” he adds. “Here at school she’s
so well liked just because of how she interacts with people.”
Russell says that she loves the competition of playing, especially in front of a
crowd. “Ever since I was little I’ve looked up to Candace Parker and her game
and how hard she works,” she says. Parker plays for the WNBA’s Los Angeles
Sparks.
The excitement of leaving for college and the NCAA intensifies as the date
draws near, but Russell says she’ll miss her hometown. “It’s bittersweet,” she
says. “I’m excited to be done and get ready to leave for college, but I’m also sad
that I’m leaving all of my friends.” — Kevin Piaskowski
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66 Club Rd., Suite 140 | Eugene
541-914-4652
eugeneweekly.com • March 21, 2013
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