Lamarcardinals.com recently sat down with senior point guard Agnija Reke, take a look at what she had to say.

LC: As you start your second season with the Lady Cardinals, what do you think will be your strongest asset to bring the team?
AR: I think returners can be good role models for the incoming players entering their first season with the Lady Cards. We know what coaches expect from the team and especially from returners. As we start a new season, I think my strongest asset will be the ability to run the floor, play hard on both ends of the court, and push my teammates to get better every day. That is the only way to get where we want to be - winning the conference championship.

LC: What goals have you set for yourself this season?
AR: This is my last season in college basketball, of course I want to play my best and get ready for the next level. My performance depends not only on me, but also from my coaches. The harder they push me, the better I will become. I am ready for a great season and will do whatever it takes to help this team win. My biggest goal for myself is to be a team player. I want my team and coaches to rely on me.

LC: If you weren't playing college basketball, what sport would you be playing?
AR: If I would have been born in America, I think I would have liked softball. I never really played but it looks good on TV. Back home in Latvia, I used to play soccer a lot, so that could be another sport for me. But I would never trade it for basketball.

LC: What do you most look forward to after graduation?
AR: Since I was little my biggest dream was to play professional club basketball somewhere in Europe. I miss European basketball and I really want to go back and play. If I could pick a place, it would be Spain, France, or Greece. I don't think I am ready for work yet.

LC: What is the best advice you would give an incoming freshmen student/athlete?
AR: To remember that your team is your new family. You can't let them down on the court or off the court.

LC: What is your most prized possession and why?
AR: My most prized possession is my humming bird necklace. My coach gave it to me after I graduated from my club team.

LC: What is your game day ritual and do you have any superstitions?
AR: I like to take a nap before the games. It helps me to relax and not be stressed out.

LC: Everyone on the Lady Cardinal team calls you a great teammate, why is this?
AR: Because I treat my teammates equally and I try to not let them down.