Shelby Lawrence '23 Recruiting Profile

As someone who has played basketball for 10+ years, including travel ball, I have a hard time imagining myself not continuing my basketball career in college.  Basketball is an integral part of my life.  Whether it's early morning or late night practices, weekends, etc., not a day seems to go by in which I do not play basketball.  This has not only developed for me a passion for the sport, but time management skills as well.  Continuing to play basketball in college would allow me to further improve on these skills while also receive a great education.  In addition, I believe that being a member of a team builds character.  The many benefits of being on a team to me are priceless.

As both a power and small forward, I believe that I bring a unique set of skills to the table.  Throughout my basketball career, being extremely tough has been one of my strongest qualities on the court.  There is not a loose ball I will not dive for or a rebound I will not fight for. Banged up knees and bruises mean nothing to me if it means one more point, steal, or rebound for my team.  For my team, we vote on who gets which award. My Junior Year, I was awarded the 110% Award from my team for my effort.  To me, giving everything I've got regardless of whether it's a practice or a game, I will go 110% throughout everything. During fast breaks, I always push myself to be the first one down the court. Secondly, I am someone who gives their all, even during practices. This is why I always try to bring lots of energy and focus during drills.  Not only does it make me better, but it gets the whole team into a "practice how you play" mindset, which, when we practice well, translates to wins in games. Lastly, I am a coachable player. I always accept constructive criticism. Whenever my coach says I need to fix or work harder at something, I do my best to do what coach says.

In terms of what makes me different from other recruits, I believe I bring a lot to the table academically and extracurricularly.  In school, I strive to maintain a high academic standing while also managing the many activities I participate in.  In addition to basketball, I am dual enrolled at the University of North Georgia.  I am an active participant in my church.  I am a member of the National Honor Society.  I am an intern at the Oasis Outreach Center where I spend time with the elderly making their day more enjoyable.  I also shadow the athletic trainers on the football field or wherever they may be so I can gain further knowledge in the career path I have chosen.  Participating in such a wide range of activities has helped improve my leadership, teamwork and communication skills and I would love to be given the opportunity to bring these skills to any college basketball team.