By Jeremy McDonald
Jeremymcdonald73@gmail.com
TURNER, Ore.– After four years of hard work, Cascade’s Olivia Bennett is heading to play College Basketball.
On Thursday afternoon, the Cougar senior signed her Letter of Intent to play Women’s Basketball at Jessup University.
Jessup University, formally William Jessup University, just wrapped up their second year in NCAA Division-II after making the move up from the NAIA level. The Rocklin, California school went 9-19 this past season and 7-15 in the PacWest Conference.
For Bennett, who helped the Cascade squad to four 4A State Playoff appearances, including a third, fifth and fourth-place finishes the last three years, the opportunity was something she was hoping and aiming for all along.
“I’ve been waiting for this moment for these last four years. Playing basketball in college was going to be what was for me no matter what happened,” said Bennett. “But to be able to play D2 Basketball somewhere, I’m extremely grateful because I know I’m not the tallest, I know I’m not the strongest but to play at that next level is everything for me.”
Bennett will continue to work on her craft over the Summer in preparation for her first year in College. Playing with the Oregon Triple squad, Bennett is hoping that those extra reps will go a long way in preparing her for what is to come.
“Just being in the gym all the time 24/7, building my stamina, getting in the weight room, getting stronger. Doing the things I need to do so I can go play at the level that I need me to play at,” said Bennett.
Photos By Jeremy McDonald
