JOHNSON, Vt.- The Northern Vermont University-Johnson women's basketball program and Head Coach Greg Eckman have announced an additional commitment for the 2021-2022 campaign.
Paris Atuahene has signed the necessary paperwork and has made her commitment to Northern Vermont University-Johnson for the fall of 2021. When arrived at NVU-Johnson Atuahene plans to pursue a degree in sports journalism with an emphasis in broadcasting.
"I was inspired to leave where I am from. My dad is Canadian, and I was inspired by his choice to leave Niagara Falls, ON to attend Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ. He was also a student-athlete. So, I knew from a very early age that I would go "away" to college and play sports," said Atuahene. "I chose NVU because it is the right size and fit for my lifetime goals. It is closer to the Canadian border and my grandparents. It offers me the opportunity to develop my interpersonal skills and to pursue my career goals. I like that the campus is diverse, and the class schedules will allow me to explore other cultures and environments on campus."
A native of Buckeye, Arizona and a student-athlete at Sandra Day O'Connor High School, Atuahene has racked up impressive awards throughout her career. This past year she was named to the Elite Girls 50: Counting down the best Arizona high school players in 2020-21. Paris was ranked 47thoverall and the 5-4 senior is crafty and fast in transition with the ball, a decent shooter and has high basketball IQ. Atuahene is the other top player and best defender for the Eagles alongside the 30thranked Ella Walker. This past season Atuahene posted 9.5 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 2.7 steals for the 2020-21 season.
"We are very excited to welcome Paris to the NVU-Johnson women's basketball family," said Eckman. "Two summer ago, we expanded our summer recruiting travel to include events in the mid-west. Our Associate Head Coach Hayley LeCours attended the 2019 US Junior Nationals Premier Showcase and was impressed with Paris and first noted of Paris, "great at driving and kicking or finishing if they don't pick her up". Over the past year we have been in the recruiting process with Paris and was beyond impressed with her ability, character, and how she always is looking out for others on & off the court and her ability to make those around her better. Paris has continued to develop her game and has great court vision and awareness, with her skill set. We intend to use Paris in the point guard position."
During her junior season, Paris received recognition for the 6A Desert Valley All-Region 1st Team, SoCal Holiday Prep Classic NCAA East Division Tournament MVP and Desert Edge Scorpion Shootout Tournament MVP. In her sophomore season Paris was selected to 2nd Team All-Conference. In the classroom Paris was also named to the National Honor Society.
"During my recruitment interactions they were all very welcoming, friendly, nice and came across as "big sisters". The feeling I got from them was that the ladies will be there to offer advice and share their experiences to help me transition from a high-school mindset to an adult athlete mindset. Speaking with them I got the feeling that I will be welcomed into the Badger Athletic Family with open arms. I am certain that the relationships formed will prepare me to welcome in a new group of recruits in the same manner. I look forward to joining the team."
Paris is also excited for the opportunity to compete under the guidance of Head Coach Greg Eckman. "I am excited to play for Coach Eckman! He has experience playing basketball in high school and college and he understands the responsibilities and hard work that goes into being a student athlete, first hand, said Atuahene. "His reputation with his players is impeccable. His philosophy is in alignment with my student-athlete plan, which is an education that leads to my degree and the balance of playing my sport. He offers just the right amount of mentorship that will allow me to have the support I need to start my journey as a young independent adult."
Paris will make an immediate impact to the Badgers backcourt and coach Eckman plans to announce additional commitments for the 2021-22 season in the near future.
