Evans on the rise

Since entering high school, Lauren Evans has always been considered one of the most talented prospects in the class of 2012. Standing 5-foot-11, Evans has a nice blend of athleticism, scoring ability and high basketball IQ. She has also gained a reputation of being a lock down defender, which is attributed to her length and excellent lateral movement.

Last season the Chandler (Ariz.) Hamilton Huskies finished 20-8 and were defeated in the 2nd round of the 5A-I playoffs to Mountain View, by the narrow margin of 50-49. Evans finished with a game high 16 points and an impressive eight steals. Although the defeat is still fresh in Evan's mind, she believes the Huskies will make another run for the title this upcoming season.

"We have several key starters coming back and we have a transfer who will help out a lot. We will be strong again," she said.

Evans played for the California Storm - Team Taurasi during the AAU evaluation period where she saw her recruitment pick up. She reportedly has over 12 Division 1 scholarship offers.

"Playing for Team Taurasi provided me the opportunity to showcase my skills on a national level. There were so many college coaches at every event," stated Evans. "What I have been hearing from coaches is that they believe I will be a very good defender at the next level. They also like my slashing ability and my approach to the game. I want to make a positive impact on a game."

The Evans family has already produced one Division 1 basketball player. Evan's brother, Ryan Evans, is currently a junior on the Wisconsin Badgers basketball team. Rising sophomore, Zach Evans, from Hamilton is also a prospect to keep an eye on.

Her father Greg Evans, who wrestled for Minnesota in college, said "we always set high expectations on the court and classroom. For us, academics and character comes first but there is pressure to excel in athletics. Before every season we set goals and as parents we do everything we can do to support those goals. The key is to stay humble and to continue to work hard."

Evans is also getting it done in the classroom, currently holding a 3.45 GPA. She plans to major in Business Management in college.

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