On January 22, 2022 at the women’s basketball team’s home game against York College, senior Kendall Michalski, from Topeka, scored career point 1,000 for the Threshers. At this game, she scored a total of 27 points.
During last year’s season and the team’s national tournament run, Michalski was a key component to the team, and she averaged 13 points per game.
This season, she is averaging 14 points per game.
“I knew I was close to the mark and had a very good chance of getting it. It wasn’t something I was necessarily trying to get but I knew going into it I wasn’t very far away,” Michalski said.
Michalski has played on the team for all four of her years here.
“I honestly didn’t think I would (hit this milestone). It wasn’t something I really ever thought about. It definitely wasn’t a goal of mine. I got the biggest smile on my face when I made the shot to reach it. Then turning back and seeing my teammates and coaches cheering for me was very cool,” Michalski said.
Her teammates seem to be the most excited about her accomplishment.
“It was just one of those moments where you’re so proud as a teammate. You want to see each other succeed and being a part of her getting to that milestone is such a good feeling. She’s such a hard worker and truly deserved it,” freshman Josie Stupey, from Arlington, Wash., said.
Not only newcomers to the team are proud of her, but teammates that have been with her every step of the way.
“As a teammate and good friend I was so excited and happy for her. It was awesome to see how all her hard work paid off. She has been a great teammate and leader over the past few years,” senior Sydney Tenant, from Peoria, Ariz., said.
Michalski has also been a big leader on the team this year.
“I was so happy and proud of her. She has been an important leader for us this year and it has been amazing to watch her succeed,” freshman Carley Robb, from Albany, Oreg., said.
Michalski feels like one of the big reasons she got this accomplishment was her dad and her teammates.
“I give all the credit to them [my teammates]. I wouldn’t have come close to reaching it if it weren’t for them. Getting to look up in the stands and see my dad there for the game was pretty cool. He’s by far my biggest supporter,” Michalski said.
Head women’s basketball coach, Derrick Pringle, is one of the most proud of her.
“Even though this is my first season with her, I feel like I have known Kendall for years. We connected from the first time we met in July. For me it was just a blessing to be a part of her special moment. Kendall is an exceptional person and obviously a great player. Kendall has been a great senior leader for us this year. She went above and beyond what I have asked for her. Her focus and determination in the classroom and on the court has inspired our underclassmen to want to do the same. Kendall has and is one of the best leaders I have ever coached,” Pringle said.
