“Natural talent only determines the limits of your athletic potential. It’s dedication and a willingness to discipline your life that makes you great.” — Billie Jean King, Founder of the Women’s Sports Foundation
Tyra Grant is a 5”11 guard for the Penn State Lady Lions. Tyra is definitely a “lioness” on the basketball court. She is the 10th player in Penn State history to earn first team All-Big Ten honors. She is very powerful and athletic. She has a “no fear attitude” that is really exciting. Tyra is not afraid take the ball to the basket with speed against her opponent. She has the vision to see and anticipate her opponents shooting the ball to block shots. Tyra’s statistics in free–throw shooting, three-pointers, rebounds, and steals are very impressive. Last but not least, this woman’s leaping and jumping abilities will make you say WOW!
Tyra Grant is not considered or ranked as a top ten prospect for the WNBA draft, but the statistics tell a different story about this young lady. The energy and passion she brings to the game of basketball is contagious. The positive, “no fear” attitude, and exciting personality she possesses will become contagious in the WNBA.
Tyra Grant and Alexis Gray-Lawson are two WNBA prospects with similar playing styles and athleticism. The most obvious characteristics these women possess are their passion and love for the game.
Alexis Gray-Lawson is a guard at the University of California. She is 5’8” with excellent ball handling and rebounding skills. She is very aggressive and not afraid to use her body while playing defense. She is a good three-point shooter, but can attack the basket off the dribble. Gray-Lawson experienced an ACL injury during her sophomore season which allowed her another year of eligibility at Cal.
This year, she developed tremendously as a leader. She increased her value as a professional player after a performance in which she scored 35 points on the road while experiencing foul trouble and injury. Alexis-Gray Lawson continued to play with a sprained ankle, which demonstrated tenacity and strength.
Early during the season, it was speculated whether she was capable of playing in the WNBA since the roster slots dropped from 13 to 11. Alexis-Gray Lawson has eliminated the doubts and negative speculation regarding her playing abilities and skills. She has been entered for the 2010 WNBA draft. Some think she could possibly place in the top ten of the draft.