You might wonder why a young hooper would want to be a post player. You take pride in being a post-player when you’re as dominant as Shania Ruff and Jasealynn Mason. Both girls have the strength, skills, and size to play down low.
Shania Ruff is an 8th grader who is solid and physical with quick feet. “My footwork comes from me putting in the work. I always work on making big moves until I perfect them,” said Ruff. She controls the paint with her ability to rebound and score. Ruff is a strong finisher near the hoop, battles for rebounds, and makes an impact inside. She can get to the bucket and moves well without the ball. Says Ruff, “Being a true post player, I just focus on playing my game.”
Jasealynn Mason is a 6th grader who protects the rim on both ends of the court and is a common mismatch for defenders in the low post. “My mindset is I don’t want to hurt people, but I have to be aggressive because I need to reach my goal. My goal is to be the greatest,” said Mason. She will be the greatest one day at the rate she’s going. Mason is comfortable in the paint, and causes a problem for the other team. She rebounds, blocks shots, and makes it look easy.
This is a reminder that young girls embrace playing underneath the basket.
