Paola Perez-Mendoza '21 Recruiting Profile

When I was four years old, my older brothers used to play basketball with my dad all the time. As a kid, I looked up to them so much, and I did not want to miss out on all the fun activities they participated in, therefore, I started playing basketball at the age of four on a boys' team because, in Puerto Rico, where I was born, there were not many girls' basketball clubs at the time. That year, we went to the championship game undefeated and I was the only girl on the team. After that year I fell in love with the game and after these twelve years playing it, I have learned the value of commitment, teamwork, discipline, and leadership.  Sacrifice is another value that comes with this sport, for example, I moved to Arizona when I was in eighth grade leaving my dad and my brothers behind, searching for a better life and hoping a good basketball program would come with it. The people that inspired and motivated me the most, my brothers, are not with me to see the achievements I have attained from all the hard work I have put in so far. My goal as a student-athlete in college is for my brothers to be able to watch my games and look up to me the same way I look up to them. 

Sitting out for nine games as a Junior, because of the transferred student rule, was the highlight of my high school career.  My growth as a team player increased since not being able to play meant helping my teammates improve their game, supporting them at all times, picking them up when we were not at our best and even acting as an assistant coach at times. Besides helping me as a player, that experience helped me grow as a person because it helped me be there for my teammates not only inside the court but also outside the court. Although I felt as if I was being held back I used that time to improve my game and practice on my weaknesses, I would also watch film with my team to see their weaknesses and how I could help improve those as well. I'm looking for a program that will be a perfect fit for me athletically as well as academically. I believe I not only have the talent to compete for a college team but the character, work ethic, and responsibility to succeed in the academic field too. As a student-athlete participating in the varsity team and all honors and advanced classes, I know that I have what it takes to be a leader on your team!