Feb. 27, 2003

NACOGDOCHES - Senior Ladyjack forward Yolanda Grant is coming upon the end of her career in the purple and white uniform. But her senior season hasn't been the stereotypical "last hoorah" for a collegiate athlete. Due to a lack of experience at the point guard position, the 5-11Grant was forced to play the point guard spot, a position she hasn't seen since her high school days. Grant credits last season in helping her transition back to the point guard role.

"I sat out last season, utilizing my redshirt year," said Grant. "That gave me the opportunity to practice different positions. I wouldn't have the chance to play those positions last year because of the depth we had at the guard."

She is one of only three seniors on a young 2002-03 Ladyjack basketball team. Grant is the true-definition of a team player and a leader for the Ladyjacks. Her name doesn't appear at the top of the team's scoring stats because Grant looks to get her teammates involved in the flow of the game.

"I just want to help my team because I want to win," said Grant. "Whatever coach Riley wants me to do on the court I'll do it. I try to lead by example. I feel that if the team expects something to get done then they will see it from me."

Grant credits SFA head coach Lee Ann Riley with refining her skills to become the player that she is today.

"I feel more confident with coach Riley," said Grant. "She allows me to be the best player that I can be."

Grant's trek to Nacogdoches came by way of Howard College. Grant transferred to SFA for the 2000-01 season. During that season, Grant helped guide the Ladyjacks to a 26-7 overall record and the team's 14th consecutive trip to the NCAA Championships. During her time at Howard College, Grant learned the value of being a true student-athlete.

"I realized all the responsibilities that came with being a student-athlete at the college level," said Grant. "It is a valuable lesson to do your homework and that everything is not all about basketball."

Grant has four regular-season games left of her college career. She will be fighting to guide the Ladyjacks back to the top of the Southland Conference and to continue a streak consecutive NCAA tournament appearances for the Ladyjacks.