18-year Ehis Etute has just started her new life in the United States of America. The 2-time JICL MVP of the first women’s league in Luxembourg is looking to combine studies and basketball at the prestigious Orgeon university, known for a high quality sports program.
The « Oregon Ducks » are an elite women’s basketball team, plenty of high level international players came out of Oregon over the last years. It is no wonder that our national team player was impressed at first sight with the framework conditions at the facility: « The first impressions in Oregon were amazing. My teammates were incredibly welcoming, the coaches and staff are friendly and at the same time, they made it clear from the beginning that they want to help us become the best possible players. In the pre-season, we practice for 3 straight hours and then go to the weight room immediately after the basketball practice. We have a nutrition coach and a refueling corner that we can use during and after practices. There, we can get protein shakes, snacks and many other things. » Furthermore, players can workout by themselves whenever they want to. « We can always go to the gym and work out with a shooting machine. Additionally, a physiotherapist is always there if we need one. Last but not least, we have a recovery room where we can take an ice bath, go to the sauna or get treatment with massage guns. »
The MVP of the U18 European Championship (Division B) in 2023 has made international headlines with her strong performances, including in the women’s national team. In Oregon, she will focus on evolving as a player in every aspect. Ehis seems to be in the perfect situation to work on her basketball abilities. « Overall, we have a very competitive team with a lot of talented players, it will be very interesting. » The conditions for Etute to take the next step in her development seem to be perfect. She feels comfortable at her new home already: « I like the situation because it takes me only 5 minutes to go to the gym. I live with 3 roommates but I do have my own room. The university also gives every player money to buy food and to go watch games at the football stadiums. »
The season for her new team will start in November with the first game scheduled for November 1st. Stay tuned to get regular updates on the journey of Ehis.
Matthew Knight Arena in Oregon, gym where the Oregon ducks plays their home games.
Pictures: Oregon ducks social media
