Kate Bullman '20 Recruiting Profile

    I have aspirations to be a well- rounded and high achieving student and athlete. In my first year of high school basketball, I was able to earn a spot as the only freshman on the varsity girl's basketball team. By the end of the season, I was the first person off the bench in most games. Despite not starting, I was still able to lead the team in rebounds and shots blocked. I was also one of the leaders in assists and scoring and played as many minutes as the starters. Most importantly, I am very proud of our accomplishments as a team. We were able to become conference champions and and then went on to win 2nd at Regionals. All of these things were possible due to the leadership of my head coach Steve Ikenn, and my assistant coach Lacy Simpson, University of Illinois alumni and former WNBA player. They both pushed me to always work hard and never be satisfied.

    I am also very lucky to be part of The Truth AAU program coached by Ryan Haun. Just like my high school coaches, Coach Ryan pushes all of the players on the team beyond what they think they are capable of. His expectations are very high and we strive to exceed those expectations every practice and every game. I am excited to play every day because I know that I will be practicing against top quality players. All of my teammates are are very high level players. One was a contributing member of the 4A Illinois State Championship team. Two others were invited to the USA U16 Basketball trials. I know that playing against and with these types of quality players challenges me and forces me to get better every time I step on the court and I wouldn't have it any other way. I always want to be part of programs that will challenge me and push me to be the best player that I believe I can be.

    While being challenged in basketball is always a priority in my life, I also believe in setting a high standard for myself academically. I think it is important to not just be seen as an athlete, but as a well- rounded person. Throughout my freshman year, I was able to maintain a 4.25 GPA while taking honors classes. I plan on continuing to take honors along with AP classes throughout my high school career.