NewsTribune Athlete of the Week: Fieldcrest’s Kaitlin White

The Fieldcrest girls basketball team made program history last week by winning the Lady Bruins Christmas Classic for the first time.

Sophomore Kaitlin White played a key role in that.

White displayed her sharpshooting ability by draining six 3-pointers and scoring 18 points in a win over Seneca in the final pool play game.

In the championship, White scored 12 points as the Knights topped Princeton.

“Kaitlin had a phenomenal week in helping us win our first ever St. Bede Christmas Classic championship,” Fieldcrest coach Mitch Neally said. “Our unselfishness on the offensive end continues to shine as our team is always looking to make the extra pass. In doing so, Kaitlin knocked down some huge 3-pointers for us and her defense was another strong point throughout the week. For only being a sophomore, Kaitlin’s maturity and basketball IQ is developed more than most underclassmen and she continues to improve her game every day.”

For her performance, White was voted the NewsTribune Athlete of the Week, sponsored by Central Bank again and Witek Wealth Management.

White answered a few questions from NewsTribune sports editor Kevin Chlum.

What do you like about playing basketball?

I like playing basketball because it makes me happy when I’m out on the court and it is a fun way to compete against others. I love playing with my friends and making lots of memories.

How did you get into basketball?

I grew up around basketball. My sister and I would always go outside and play one on one. When I was little, I enjoyed going to my older siblings’ games and watching them play.

What are your strengths as a basketball player?

I think my strengths are being able to shoot 3s and playing defense on and off the ball.

What is your favorite sports memory?

My favorite sports memory is being part of the first Fieldcrest team to win the St. Bede tournament.

Do you have any nicknames?

Most people call me Kate. Some coaches call me Giggles and White.

Besides basketball season, what do you like about winter?

My favorite thing about winter is definitely Christmas and when it snows.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

If I could travel anywhere, I would go to Hawaii because I love the beach and I think it is a beautiful place to explore, especially the volcanoes.

If you could get advice from anyone, who would it be and why?

I would ask Paige Bueckers for advice because I think she is a really great player and she can play at any position and be good at it.

What is a movie you never get tired of watching?

A movie I can watch all day without getting tired of it would be The Good Dinosaur.

What are your thoughts on your performance last week?

During the tournament, I think I did pretty good with scoring and defense. My shots were falling and I had some good assists and steals.