Flashes Sign Guard and Center from Wisconsin
11/17/2008 12:00:00 AM | Women's Basketball
KENT, Ohio - Kent State announced the signing of two Wisconsin natives to national letters of intent during the recent early signing period. Sam Price, a 5-10 guard from Eau Claire, and Leslie Schaffer, a 6-3 center from Verona, mark the revival of Wisconsin natives that have joined the Golden Flashes.
"Sam will bring needed help to the guard position," Head Coach Bob Lindsay said "And we really liked Leslie's low post scoring abilitty. Both young ladies are also excellent students."
Schaffer averaged 13.1 points and 7.8 rebounds per game as a junior, leading Verona to its first state championship game appearance. She shot 61 percent from the field last season and broke a state tournament record by blocking seven shots in a single game. Schaffer earned spots on the AP All-State Team and the state All-Tournament Team. Along with the basketball program, Schaffer took in interest in Kent State's nationally recognized fashion design program.
"Leslie runs well, has good strength, and is a very smart player," Lindsay said.
Price averaged 11.3 points per game as a junior at Eau Claire North, leading her squad to a Big Rivers Conference title and a spot in the Sectional finals. She is the second North player in as many seasons to commit to Division I. Price earned All-Big Rivers and All-Northwest honors. She also played for Team Wisconsin Select AAU, who won the AAU Junior Olympics. Price is interested in Kent State's pre-med program.
"Sam has size, strength, scoring ability and a very good feel for the game," Lindsay said.
Other Wisconsin natives that have been a part of KSU's storied history include two-time MAC Defensive Player of the Year Malika Willoughby (2003-06), three time All-MAC selection Carrie Templin (1994-98) and two-time All-MAC player Billie Jean Smith-Goldman (1993-97).
Kent State is in action again Wednesday at Delaware State before returning home to host New Mexico State Sunday (Nov. 23) as part of a doubleheader with the men's team.
