NSU to Honor White, Millar on Senior Night
TAHLEQUAH, Okla. -- Wednesday night at Jack Dobbins Field House will be a night of celebration on two fronts for the Northeastern State RiverHawks.
The RiverHawks can lockup a share of the Lone Star Conference North Division title with a victory over Cameron University and its senior night. The RiverHawks and Aggies will tip off at 6 p.m.
And, Northeastern State's two two seniors, Jessica White from Jenks and Sarah Millar from Melbourne, Australia, will be honored for their contributions the past four seasons as members of the RiverHawks basketball team.
Northeastern State head coach Randy Gipson attributes much of the success of this year's team which has post a 22-5 overall record and 11-1 LSC North Division record , to both White and Millar, not only for their play on the court, but their guidance off the floor to a young basketball team.
"These two young ladies have played a major role in our success with their mentoring of our young players," said Gipson. "They both have brought a great work ethic and bring a really great attitude to every practice that the younger players see. Its that positive attitude they display that has helped build this team and the previous teams over the past four seasons."
White, who along with Millar, will be playing their final game at Dobbins Field House, said "It just seems like it's my senior night in high school, because its gone so fast.
"It just seems unreal that this is my last game here," said White. "I don't think any of my family fathoms the fact this is my last home basketball game in this gym. It's kind of crazy.
"I feel sad, because you never want it to end. Playing in front the crowds we have and in this gym, it's just sad to think it's the last time."
White said you enjoyed her role as being "a big sister" to the young RiverHawks, helping them both on and off the court.
"You to be a big sister and mother to the young players as a senior," said White. "I know that because I was in the same situation when I came here and I looked up to the older players. As a freshman it's hard to grasp every little thing you have to do.
"What I like about this team is that we all get along, we have great chemistry. We don't have a lot of drama, which can happen on women's teams. I just really enjoy this team.
"When Sarah and I have something to say they open their ears and really take in what we have to say. I wouldn't rather be a senior on any other team. I'm glad this is my team, my group of girls," said White.
Millar, who first stepped on the Northeastern State campus as an 18-year-old not knowing anyone, said she has enjoyed every minute of her experience.
"The past two years have really flown past," said Millar. "The first two years as an international student was an adjustment, but I've never regretted one second. Its been one of the best experiences of my life.
"We have been the big sisters to this team. The majority of us all live in the same apartment building and I've always made sure I'm available to all the girls. Everyone can look after themselves but it's nice to have someone look after each other and make sure if there is any problems we can keep everything under control.
"But this team has a chemistry and a communication this is our strengths. We've really developed that on and off the court. We've gelled together and it's only going to help us. We have a good mix of older and younger players that bring all the elements together that we can have a great team," said Millar.
