Gianna Kneepkens '21 Recruiting Profile

As the only sister with five older brothers who played basketball, I learned the advantage of competition as well as the importance of other’s contributions, on our driveway court,  at family dinners and on report card day. I intend to continue hard courses in high school and further maintain my 4.0 GPA. For my schooling, I will search out a community that emphasize character, academic achievement,  while pursuing athletic excellence. The balance of playing collegiate basketball and continuing my success in the classroom will help prepare me for a life in medicine. I appreciate the sacrifice necessary for accomplishment. Unfortunately, the region I play high school basketball in emphasizes hockey over basketball, so during the off-season, I travel two and a half hours, three or four times a week, to work out with the elite club, Fury UAA.  The advantage of playing with skilled players and different coaches has improved my high school game. The daily training both locally and in the Twin Cities has resulted in placing among the top 10 players in northern Minnesota for overall points, field goal, three-point, and free throw percentages, along with assists and steals per game. The benefit of this diligence has resulted in recognition from the state, conference and team awards. Additionally I have developed friendships with players from other schools and around the state.  I am passionate about the game of basketball. I would be thrilled to play for an institution that encourages a collaborative competition and successful play. I am determined to find a college education that helps me become a well-rounded individual and is enthusiastic about me reaching my potential. I will bring my drive for team success to whatever program I am privileged to play for. I take being a person of character seriously and fellow players, coaches, and the school can depend on me to bring the highest level of integrity to the game, the classroom and the institution.  I will take the invitation to play collegiate basketball as an honor and obligation and I will absolutely give my best in all areas of my life in return.