A crowd gathered on Tuesday, Jan. 12, for the women’s basketball game against Berea College.

As her name was announced, Ashmere Woods, freshman starting guard, ran through the line-up of her teammates, giving high-fives and getting pumped up for the game. She then shared a traditional handshake with Whitney Duncan, just like when they played together at Moore High School in Louisville.

Woods, who is 5-feet-7 inches tall, said she tries to claim the court during her games, and people are noticing it.

Woods was named Kentucky Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Player of the Week for the week of Jan. 3.

“I was shocked when I got it,” Woods said. “It was an honor.”

She said basketball has always been an important part of her life.

As a child, she said she dreamed of becoming a professional basketball player.

Woods is originally from Gallatin, Tenn.

When she lived Tennessee, she played softball, but said basketball took precedence as she discovered her love for it.

After high school, Woods att ended Western Kentucky University for a year, but decided that she wanted to continue to play basketball.

She was off ered a basketball scholarship to IU Southeast, and she jumped at the chance.

Woods said she came to IU Southeast to play and is doing well for herself.

Before each game, she said she prepares herself mentally and physically.

Practicing with the team several times a week, Woods said she continually strives to become a better player.

“You have to go hard at practice, the same speed that you would have in a game,” Woods said. “If you’re lazy in practice, it will aff ect the way that you play during a game.”

Woods said after practice she likes to take a nap and then listen to music. Her favorite artist is Lil’ Wayne.

Playing video games and watching TV are also relaxers for Woods. Her favorite shows include Family Guy, Bad Girls Club and Teen Mom.

“I love the freedom of college and it gives me the ability to be more responsible,” Woods said.

She said she’s also proud of herself for making it to college and she knows that she has people to support her along the way.

“My parents and sister have always been there and supported me with everything I do.” Woods said.

Living in Louisville, her family comes to her games to cheer her on and show their continuous love and support.

She said her favorite part is being on the team and sharing a passion for basketball with people who feel the same way. Woods said she loves to hang out with the team and just be around them.

By ASHLEY AGNEW
Staff Writer
aeagnew@indiana.edu