As Evina Westbrook sat on the sidelines watching the rest of the UConn women's basketball team warm up before games last season, coach Geno Auriemma would come over and give her tokens of wisdom about life or basketball.
When the team went on road trips, teammates always sent videos or check-in texts to make sure she knew they were thinking of her. After Westbrook underwent her second knee surgery in six months, Shea Ralph gave advice on the recovery and kept her spirits up.
Very little last season went right for Westbrook, who had to sit out after getting denied a transfer waiver from the NCAA and then was further sidelined after her December procedure. But teammates and coaches helped through those disappointments by making her feel included and invested in the team that she would soon enough help lead.
That time is here. Westbrook, now eligible and cleared to return to basketball activities, is ready to get back on the court _ and just as importantly, lead a freshmen-heavy group as the oldest player and one of its captains.
"I couldn't be happier, truly," Auriemma said. "She's been great. Absolutely great."
