Native players on Benedictine University team

Kaylani Smartt (left) and Anna Gorman.

By LACEY WHELAN
Sho-Ban News 
POCATELLO — Kaylani Smartt, and her roommate Anna Gorman, who both play for Benedictine University at Mesa played against Idaho State University at Reed Gym, on Thursday, November 29.

The Redhawks lead the start of the game, but the second quarter kept things close until the end of the game where ISU triumphed over Benedictine 88-51.

Smartt is originally from Owyhee, Nevada, and Gorman is from Many Farms, Arizona. Both come from small towns and said it has become an adjustment living in a bigger city. Gorman says in her experience with playing college basketball in Division 1 is she is learning to adjust to playing under pressure, and she learned to control the ball better while shooting and scoring. She learned how to assist and pass to other players on the team, and to learn to play as a team. Gorman’s advice to those who will be going into college basketball is to work hard and push yourself through any pains and remember everyone else is practicing too. Practice, and have the mindset to get better everyday, and she says don’t rely on the skills that you have, but to remember to always work hard.  

Smartt said her experience playing in Division 1 has been challenging, especially coming from a small school, but she feels like she is doing okay. Her advice for anyone playing in college sports is to always work hard, no matter where you come from. She said to always remember where you came from.  

Smartt’s large family was present for the game and couldn’t wait to see her after the game concluded. Her family all wanted to take photos with her, and to talk about her experience at the college she attends. 

Smartt’s mom introduced her family to Anna Gorman. Many of Smartt’s family had questions for both players and appeared excited to talk with both of the girls, as well as other team members.