Vanissa Nwaigbo '22 Recruiting Profile

Hello! My name is Vanissa Nwaigbo and I am a 5' 11" and about 200 lbs. About 4 years ago, basketball was an unfamiliar sport. Back home in Nigeria, we weren't really accustomed to playing basketball rather we played soccer and volleyball more. When I moved to America, I saw people actually playing it. I loved what I saw so I started teaching myself how to play. I would sometimes play with the boys at school sometimes I felt embarrassed because I was the only girl but it didn't matter.  When I got accepted into my schools basketball team, I grinned from ear to ear while saying thank you till I left his office.

Up to this moment, I am still trying to be at a level higher than that of my teammates but basketball has helped me realize that my inquisitiveness, willingness to help and commitment is something that most athletes might not possess. I am not the one to act boastful because I know where I started from and I believe that I will make a useful positive impact on my old and new mates on the team.  Due to the some disturbances like lack of gym nearby my apartment complex, I still train my basketball IQ by watching various Youtube videos. 

Although I really love this sport, I can never forget my academics. I am currently and all A student. For Some people believe that by being the best in sports there is no need for school and all attention should be on doing their best in sports. After I graduate from high school, I would like to go straight into college and pursue a career in medicine. While in school, I would also love to balance my sport and academic life if I get accepted into the girls basketball team.