WBB Q&A: Freshman Rebecca Ripley
CORAL GABLES, Fla. – Freshman Rebecca Ripley is one of six newcomers to the University of Miami women’s basketball team and among the four who are already on campus.
A 6-foot guard/forward from Stratham, N.H., who won New Hampshire Gatorade Player of the Year at the New Hampton School in 2015-16, Ripley sat down with HurricaneSports.com to talk about the start of her college tenure, her game and more . . .
Q: You have been here for about four weeks. What has it been like for you so far?
A: It’s been really good. The transition is a little difficult, but being at a boarding school for four years and already going through that, it’s kind of a little bit more easy and more flowing. So, I think it’s going pretty well so far.
Q: How much does it help that you have come in with three other newcomers in Beatrice, Endia and Taylor, who are all here at the same time getting used to it?
A: I’ve always thought going through something with other people is easier. Since you have people that are going through the same things as you, it’s easier to get through those obstacles that you do face.
Q: What has been your favorite part so far?
A: My favorite, I think, has been getting to know people. I like getting to know people throughout my classes and on campus. I also like the scenery because coming from New England, we don’t really get weather like this [or have] the palm trees. I like riding my bike around the lake on campus.
Q: Is there anything that has been the biggest adjustment for you so far?
A: The biggest adjustment has been living away from my family because my boarding school was only like an hour away from home and my car, so I could just come home whenever. So, I think just being very far from my family and friends I think is the biggest obstacle.
Q: Is that something you are also excited about in getting away?
A: Yeah, definitely. Everyone is going to have to move on at some point in their life and I think it’s a big step to adulthood. It’s important.
Q: Have you thought about what you want to major in and, if so, what?
A: Business marketing. I’m a people person. I like talking to people, creating friendships and relationships. So, I think that would be the best future for me.
Q: Obviously, it is still early, but are there any classes that you have most enjoyed so far or that you are most looking forward to taking?
A: Right now, actually I’m just finishing up public speaking. I took that class in high school and that was one of my favorite classes. Either sharing personal stories or talking about something that has impacted your life, that’s always been something that I like doing.
Q: Basketball-wise, how would you describe your game?
A: Versatile. I can shoot the ball pretty consistently [and I am capable of] driving to the basket and rebounding. I can play the two, three or four, multiple positions. So, versatility, definitely.
Q: What are you most looking to about your college career?
A: I’m looking forward to just playing against the most difficult teams in the country while playing in the ACC, which is the most challenging conference. Definitely, going to BC this year, back to my city, playing in front of my friends and family [is something I am also looking forward to].
Q: What made you decide Miami was the school for you?
A: I decided on Miami because of the feel that I got right when I stepped on campus, the relationships that were built between coaches and players and just the campus; it’s a beautiful campus and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Also because it’s in the ACC, which is, like I said, the most challenging conference there is.
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