Before the season starts, the Bradley University Women’s Basketball team will fly overseas on Monday, and play three games in Portugal throughout the week.
Coach Andrea Gorski said the trip will be great for the girls.
“It’s a good team bonding experience, less distractions over there. So, we’ll really be able to focus on one another and what we want to accomplish this year as a team”.
Freshman Violeta Verano (Fores) is a new addition to the team this year, from Spain. However, she has been in the country less than a week and they will be playing close to her home.
The rules of basketball have some differences overseas, and Verano has been able to help out her teammates.
“The basketball here is very different than the Spain one,” Verano said. “But, I think I can help because the difference is a good adoption”.
Vernao loves playing here in the States, and said playing here “is a dream come true”.
Gorski said the Spanish speaking addition has acclimated very well in the U.S.
“At practice, her basketball IQ is so high,” Gorski said. Tuesday marks Verano’s fourth practice with the team.
The girls are excited for the opportunity to play overseas.
“It’s like the night before Christmas here,” Gorski said.
Senior Chelsea Brackmann said she is excited to play international teams.
“I don’t really know what to expect,” Brackmann said. “But, I’m just going to go in there like any other game”.
