Brittany Christian
Wakefield basketball — senior
To say Wakefield senior Brittany Christian has experienced some success as a member of the Lady Wolverines' girls basketball team might rank up there as one of the biggest understatements ever told.
Now entering her fourth year on varsity, Christian has helped Wakefield claim the Cap-7 Conference regular-season title as well as the league's tournament championship each year. In her first two years, she was in a supportive role. Last year, Christian became a starter and the Lady Wolverines' top deep threat. This fall, the senior will be counted on for everything from leadership to scoring.
Last week, the sharp shooter spoke with NorthRaleighSports.com about the 2009-10 Lady Wolverines, playing under Coach Danielle Blackburn and who's the next Wakefield star on the rise.
This is your fourth year on varsity, how is this year different for you than in years past?
Last year, we had great seniors and they were leaders. Coach Blackburn focuses a lot on senior leadership, so now that I'm a senior — and the other seniors — we need to lead by example.
How do you maintain the level of success the Wakefield girls basketball program has had in recent years?
We know that we have lost some talented players, but that doesn't mean anything to us. We are still going to work hard every day, always have a positive attitude and have fun. We're going to do what we've always done, and play our game.
You were counted on as a shooter last year, but has your role changed with the graduation of Sarah Wollett?
It is going to be different this year. We aren't going to have a main point guard, though we have a transfer from Charlotte, Jessica Collins, and she is a great point guard. So she will run mostly the 1. But we're pretty much going to run, if you get the ball and you can dribble, just go. Get it and go.
As a shooter, you're relied on to hit those big hits. How much do you practice your shot?
A lot. Especially over the summer. And I try to stay after practice if I can.
How many shots do you try to get up? Or do you shot until you feel confident?
If it's after practice, sometimes I will shot until I can't shoot any more.
Favorite place to shoot on the floor?
Behind the arch.
Any particular area?
I like the corners and on top (of the key).
Who has been the biggest surprise on this team so far? Who is going to surprise some people?
Lauren Hudson.
She is a sophomore. Last year was more of her transitioning year. This year, she is going to give us so much. She is going to play the four — power forward — and a lot of people are going to underestimate her, but she's going to be a beast.
Who's the most consistent person on this team? The one you rely on the most?
Kayla Harris. She always goes hard. She is just always consistent.
What are your expectations for the Cap-7?
I think Broughton and Millbrook should be really good. We do have a really tough conference. Every game is going to be tough. You can't just play hard one game,
Broughton and Millbrook have a lot of returners.
Is there any game you looking forward to?
I am just looking forward to our first game. And I'm sure everyone will agree with me because it's been awhile since we have played in a real game.
Editor's Note: Wakefield knocked off Clayton 75-58 in its season opener Nov. 18.
Any other games?
The Wake Forest-Rolesville game because they are our rivals. And Broughton because we lost to them last year. I'm looking forward to seeing them again.
Has it seemed like you have been on varsity forever?
Yeah, but it goes by fast. It really does. It has been so much fun. And I can't imagine playing for anyone else except Coach Blackburn. It's really been great playing here.
The Lady Wolverines start off with eight non-conference games before beginning Cap-7 Conference play Dec. 10, hosting Sanderson at 5:30 p.m.
