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Kentucky Basketball's Ansley Almonor Determined to Silence the Doubters
Lexington, Ky. --
Kentucky basketball forward Ansley Almonor has heard the whispers and seen the skepticism surrounding her game. Some have questioned her ability to contribute at the Southeastern Conference level, but Almonor is determined to prove her doubters wrong.
"I know I belong here," Almonor said. "I've worked too hard to let anyone tell me otherwise."
The 6-foot-2 forward from Ontario, Canada, was a highly touted recruit coming out of high school. She was ranked as a top-50 prospect by ESPN and was named the MVP of the FIBA U19 World Cup in 2021.
But Almonor's transition to college basketball has not been without its challenges. She averaged just 2.9 points and 2.5 rebounds per game as a freshman last season.
"I struggled a lot last year," Almonor admitted. "I was trying to do too much and I wasn't playing within myself."
This offseason, Almonor has focused on improving her strength and conditioning. She has also worked on her shooting and ball-handling skills.
"I'm a different player than I was last year," Almonor said. "I'm more confident and I'm more comfortable in my role."
Kentucky coach Kyra Elzy is excited about Almonor's potential.
"Ansley has all the tools to be a great player," Elzy said. "She's athletic, she's skilled, and she's a hard worker. I'm confident that she's going to have a breakout season this year."
Almonor is eager to prove herself on the court. She knows that she has something to prove to her doubters, but she's also confident in her abilities.
"I'm not going to let anyone tell me that I can't play at this level," Almonor said. "I'm going to prove them wrong."
Almonor's journey to Kentucky
Ansley Almonor was born in Toronto, Canada, and began playing basketball at a young age. She quickly developed a passion for the game and dreamed of one day playing in the WNBA.
Almonor attended Brampton Secondary School, where she was a standout player. She led her team to three provincial championships and was named the MVP of the tournament twice.
Almonor also played for the Canadian national team at the youth level. She helped Canada win a silver medal at the FIBA U19 World Cup in 2021.
After graduating from high school, Almonor was recruited by several top college programs. She ultimately decided to attend Kentucky, where she is now a sophomore.
Almonor's role on the Kentucky Wildcats
Ansley Almonor is a versatile forward who can play both inside and outside. She is a good shooter and ball-handler, and she is also a strong rebounder.
Almonor is expected to play a significant role for Kentucky this season. She will be counted on to provide scoring, rebounding, and defense.
Almonor is confident that she can help Kentucky win games.
"I'm excited to get started," Almonor said. "I think we have a great team and I'm confident that we can make a run in the NCAA Tournament."
Almonor's future aspirations
Ansley Almonor dreams of playing in the WNBA. She knows that she has a lot of hard work ahead of her, but she is determined to achieve her goal.
"I want to be the best player that I can be," Almonor said. "I want to play in the WNBA and I want to win a championship."
Almonor is on the right track to achieving her dreams. She is a talented player with a strong work ethic. She is also surrounded by a supportive family and coaching staff.
With hard work and dedication, there is no doubt that Ansley Almonor can achieve her goals.