Putnina uses international experience to boost her game
A lot of basketball players typically practice at their home court during the off season, fine-tuning their skills and focusing on improving their weaknesses.
Very few players have had the experience that sophomore forward Aija Putnina had. Hailing from Riga, Latvia, Putnina’s international playing experience has made her one of the most dynamic players on the CU women’s basketball team.
“Overseas, it’s a lot different. It taught me to become a better player overall and taught me more of the guard position, along with the post,” Putnina said.
Putnina’s freshman season began with an injury to team veteran forward Kara Richards. After the injury, Putnina averaged 10.5 points, 13 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game in a four-game span.
“There is no doubt that the strength of this team is the front line,” said Head Coach Kathy McConnell-Miller. “When you have Jackie (McFarland), Kara (Richards) and Aija (Putnina) you have strength down low as well as offensive and defensive ability not to mention their experience. It’s hard to keep any of them off the floor.”
Putnina is also eager to show the improvements on offense from this past season.
“I think it’s really different and it will work really well. Someone’s always going to be inside,” Putnina said.
Despite her improvements, Putnina said she can still work on her communication and being in the right spot for her teammates.
“She has always been an aggressive player, but she came in with this new strength and confidence that made her hard to guard,” McFarland said.
Contact Campus Press staff writer Justin Sedgwick at justin.sedgwick@thecampuspress.com
