The Portland State women’s basketball team has a rich history filled with remarkable athletes who have left an indelible mark on the program. Over the years, these players have shown exceptional talent, skill, and dedication, making them stand out as some of the best in women’s college basketball. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top players in Portland State women’s basketball history.
Kelsey Kahle: A Legendary Scorer
Kelsey Kahle is a name that resonates with Portland State basketball fans. Playing from 2005 to 2009, Kahle was a dominant force on the court. As a versatile forward, she became the school’s all-time leading scorer with 2,049 points. Her ability to score from anywhere on the floor made her a constant threat to opponents. Kahle’s impact on the game extended beyond scoring; she was also known for her leadership and tenacity.
Achievements and Impact
Kahle’s career at Portland State was decorated with numerous accolades. She was a four-time All-Big Sky Conference selection and played a crucial role in leading the team to their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 2009. Her legacy as one of the greatest players in Portland State history is firmly cemented.
Eryn Jones: The Sharpshooter
Another standout player in Portland State’s history is Eryn Jones. Known for her incredible shooting ability, Jones played from 2008 to 2012. As a guard, she had a knack for hitting crucial shots, especially from beyond the arc. Jones ranks among the top three-point shooters in program history, a testament to her shooting prowess.
Key Contributions
Jones was instrumental in Portland State’s success during her tenure. Her ability to stretch the floor with her shooting opened up opportunities for her teammates. She was a key player in the team’s run to the NCAA Tournament in 2010. Jones was named the Big Sky Conference Most Valuable Player in 2011, highlighting her impact on the court.
Courtney West: The Defensive Anchor
Courtney West, who played from 2016 to 2019, was a dominant defensive presence for Portland State. Standing at 6’4″, West was an imposing figure in the paint. Her shot-blocking ability and defensive prowess made her a nightmare for opposing offenses.
Defensive Dominance
West holds the school record for career blocks, showcasing her ability to alter shots and protect the rim. Her defensive skills were a key component of Portland State’s success during her time with the team. West’s contributions on the defensive end helped the team secure a Big Sky Conference Tournament championship in 2019.
Claire Faucher: The Floor General
Claire Faucher was the quintessential point guard for Portland State from 2006 to 2010. Known for her court vision and passing ability, Faucher was the engine that powered the team’s offense. Her leadership and ability to orchestrate plays made her an invaluable asset to the team.
Leadership and Playmaking
Faucher holds the school record for career assists, a testament to her playmaking skills. Her ability to find open teammates and create scoring opportunities was unmatched. Faucher’s leadership on the court helped guide Portland State to multiple successful seasons during her career.
Kylie Jimenez: The Dynamic Playmaker
Kylie Jimenez, who played from 2017 to 2021, was a dynamic guard known for her speed and agility. Jimenez’s ability to drive to the basket and create plays made her a standout player for Portland State. Her quickness and basketball IQ allowed her to excel in both scoring and facilitating.
Versatile Contributions
Jimenez’s versatility was evident in her ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game. She was a consistent performer and a key player in Portland State’s success during her tenure. Jimenez’s contributions helped the team secure another Big Sky Conference Tournament championship in 2019.
Courtney VanBrocklin: The All-Around Performer
Courtney VanBrocklin played for Portland State from 2010 to 2013 and was known for her all-around game. As a guard, she was a proficient scorer, a strong defender, and an excellent rebounder. VanBrocklin’s ability to impact the game in various ways made her a valuable asset to the team.
Impactful Play
VanBrocklin’s versatility allowed her to contribute significantly to the team’s success. Her scoring ability and defensive skills were instrumental in Portland State’s competitive performances during her time with the team. VanBrocklin’s well-rounded game earned her numerous accolades, including All-Big Sky Conference honors.
Ashley Bolston: The Scoring Sensation
Ashley Bolston, who played from 2016 to 2019, was a prolific scorer for Portland State. As a guard, Bolston had the ability to take over games with her scoring ability. Her knack for getting to the free-throw line and converting at a high rate made her a constant scoring threat.
Offensive Prowess
Bolston’s scoring ability was a key factor in Portland State’s offensive success. Her ability to create her own shot and score in a variety of ways made her a difficult matchup for opponents. Bolston’s offensive contributions were instrumental in the team’s Big Sky Conference championship run in 2019.
Kelli Valentine: The Reliable Forward
Kelli Valentine played for Portland State from 2007 to 2011 and was known for her consistency and reliability. As a forward, Valentine was a strong presence in the paint, both as a scorer and a rebounder. Her work ethic and determination made her a key player for the team.
Consistent Contributions
Valentine’s consistent performance helped anchor the team’s frontcourt during her career. Her ability to score and rebound effectively made her a valuable asset to the team. Valentine’s contributions were crucial to Portland State’s competitive success during her tenure.
Conclusion
Portland State women’s basketball has been home to many talented players over the years. The athletes mentioned in this article have left a lasting impact on the program, setting records and achieving success both individually and as part of the team. Their contributions have helped shape the legacy of Portland State women’s basketball, and their stories continue to inspire future generations of players.