Over the next few months, WVUsports.com will visit with returning West Virginia University women’s basketball players to recap the previous season and preview the upcoming year. This edition features sophomore guard Katrina Pardee.

Q: How did you adjust going from a high school player to a freshman at WVU?
A: It just took time to adjust to the pace, speed, time constraints and everything. The staff and my teammates really helped me get over the course of the season.

 

Q: At what point during the season did you feel like you really started to know what it takes to be a Division I Athlete?
A: Probably at the end of our preseason and European tour. All of those three-hour practices, weights and conditioning really gave me an idea of what it takes.

 

Q: How did the leadership of upperclassmen last year help you?
A: It was really helpful. They were always there if we needed anything on and off the court. If we were ever struggling, they told us this is what you want to do. They encouraged us to never get down and made us realize that everybody goes through these struggles. Keep your head up and stay positive.

 

Q: What are you goals this offseason?
A: I want to take more of a leadership role and work on my defense. I know I need to be able to be on the floor and I can’t do that if I don’t play defense. Coach Carey is a really aggressive defensive coach. He wants us to be up in the lane. It’s a lot of hard work and you must be in good shape to be able to do that. It’s about focus, talking and communicating with your teammates to let them know where you are.

 

Q: What are you looking forward to this season?
A: I am really excited to see how this season turns out. We have a really special group, and I see big things happening this year. It’ll be interesting to see what we can do.

 

Q: You’ve been in Morgantown for a year now, what do you love about the University and the community?
A: There’s no doubt I love our fan base. Mountaineer fans are so loyal. Anywhere we go, they recognize us. Our fans and season ticket holders love coming to our games. It’s really special when the fans know who you and know that they will support us no matter what.