From College Heights to UNBC, it's only a short drive.
For basketball guard Isabel Fuller, it's more like a quantum leap.
She's obviously equipped with the skill and determination needed to make that jump from high school ball to U Sports now that it's confirmed Fuller has been recruited to join the UNBC Timberwolves for the 2019-20 season.
"Ever since I started to watch basketball, coming to watch the games, it has been a dream of mine to play at the university level," said Fuller, in a T-wolves' release. "I grew up here, and it is so cool to be able to play with them. I always looked up to them, and it is going to be such a cool experience. I am really excited."
The 17-year-old Fuller has a history of playing with older, more experienced players which started in Grade 9 when she made the College Heights Cougars senior team. Growing up in the shadow of the T-wolves' program, she's had a chance train with the team over the past year. Her audition impressed head coach Sergey Shchepotkin enough that he made the five-foot-10 Fuller an offer that will keep her close to home playing in the Canada West Conference.
"I am really happy and excited to bring Isabel into our program," said Shchepotkin. "She has the desire to get better every time she gets on the court, and has a good frame and athleticism to contribute to our team moving forward. She grew up watching the Timberwolves, and now she can bring that passion for the next five years."
Fuller's consistent leadership on the court helped the Cougars advance as zone finalist to the provincial tournament in Langley. She's been part of the Junior Timberwolves development program for the past seven years and she's watched enough UNBC games to know the transition to the university level will be the biggest challenge of her basketball career so far.
"The speed is a lot different, and the height," said the two-time City League all star and double-A zone standout. "They are all tall and strong. It's going to be a big adjustment. I really like to push the ball on the fast break. I like to shoot, and get to those baseline shots. I am pretty good at seeing the floor, seeing what is happening in the game, and making plays.
"The girls are so nice and welcoming - they're really supportive and help me out, and I am so excited to play with them. Coach Sergey is a really good coach. He is so supportive and really knows the game well. It is definitely helping me become a stronger player. Realizing what it's like to play at this level. It is different, but really cool."
The T-wolves are just three-and-a-half months away from training camp. Fuller, a mainstay on the honour roll at College Heights, is enrolled in general studies at UNBC.
"Lots of my friends are here, and all my family is here. It is really cool they'll be able to come out and support," she said. "When I put the jersey on, it will be actually happening, and I am really excited. I have always wanted to play university ball, and it happening now is super exciting. I am so excited to have the privilege to play with UNBC."
