North Carolina State University Athletics
Woman on the Rise: Ashley Key
8/3/2005 12:00:00 AM | Women's Basketball
Aug. 3, 2005
RALEIGH, N.C. - With the summer winding down and the start of the fall semester looming, NC State women's basketball players are already looking forward to individual workouts. Another year has gone by, another year stronger, wiser and more experienced. The Wolfpack players have never ventured far from one another during the summer months, returning to meet several times a week to play pick-up games and take part in strength and conditioning workouts. So GoPack.com decided to catch up with each of the players to find out what the summer has been like, find out some interesting things others may not know and also to discover what the future holds. For the next month, each player will sit down to answer these questions. Next Up: Junior Ashley Key.
With two seasons under her belt, ACC All-Defensive team member Ashley Key has been training hard during the offseason to keep herself physically fit and prepared for her third season with the Wolfpack. The Atlanta, Ga. native takes pride in her success as a defender in the ACC so don't let the straight-face fool you. Inside she is smiling as she stifles the opposing offensive attack with her quick feet and shadowing physique.
What were your goals when you first arrived on campus?
To fit in and help wherever I could. There were a lot times when I was frustrated, but I just kept working through it. I would work the offenses out in my head and then on the court. I tried to keep up. I wanted and needed to get stronger. I was a lightweight.
How have your goals changed?
To be the ACC Defensive Player of the Year, not just to be named to the team. The coaches give me the opportunity to defend the top guards in the ACC. If I stop them, it helps my team win and I have done my job. And also I want to be more offensive minded. That means to always to be a threat offensively on the court.
How have you evolved as a player, as a person after being at NC State for two years?
Basketball-wise, I actually play defense. In high school I didn't have to play that much defense. I have been given more responsibility defensively here at NC State. As a person I have become more confident in myself.
Becoming a full-time starter last season, how did you get to that point and what are you doing now to work at keeping it?
When we played overseas in Greece and Italy last summer I was given the opportunity to let my hard work pay off and try new things. I began to show the potential I had to be the player they needed in the lineup. It carried over into preseason. I just continue to work on the little things, such as ball handling, keeping my hands up and feet active.
What drives you to work as hard as you do?
To be able to help the team succeed and be able to clog the holes that we had in the past. To balance out the scoring and become even stronger on defense.
What do you miss most about your hometown, Atlanta?
There is always something to see and do. But mostly the Fayetteville Pavilion, which is similar to Cameron Village here in Raleigh, but with a movie theatre and The Avenues of Peachtree City (in particular Starbucks, which I go to ever time I am there). I also miss my friends and family.
What are you looking forward to personally and as a player?
I am getting excited for the Bahamas and the other road trips and just being around my teammates.
What advice do you have for the newcomers this season?
Don't get frustrated, but if you do, just keep working hard. Keep your head up and stay positive.
NC State made its 18th trip to the NCAA Tournament last season, what does it mean to be a part of such tradition and success?
It's huge just to go for two-straight seasons. It is great to be a part of Coach Yow and her success. But it is by far not enough just to go. We don't just want to stop at the first round, but to go all the way. We have gotten our feet wet, twice, and it isn't enough.
What would you like to say to the NC State fans who are looking forward to a 19th appearance this season?
We will definitely be working hard to get that done. It is on our goal list to reach.
