Former Auburn Riverside girls basketball standout and Washington State University freshman Katie Grad will have to watch the remainder of the season from the sideline.
Grad, a 2008 graduate of Auburn Riverside, injured her foot in practice and will miss the rest of season as she recovers from surgery. The 5-foot-8 guard is scheduled to redshirt, but hopes to be back at full strength for next season.
“The foot injury is a tough blow to our WSU basketball family,” Cougars coach June Daugherty said in a news release. “Katie is a very talented young freshman who played extremely well in our preseason. We wish her all the best with the surgery and will be here to support every step of the way throughout her road to recovery.
“In her absence, our team will certainly have to pick up their game to make up for the talented play and leadership she provided.”
The visiting Cougars, 1-1, defeated previously unbeaten Boise State University 85-76 in a nonconference game Thursday night. The Cougars will play their first game of the season at Friel Court on Sunday against Montana State.
Grad was instrumental in the Ravens’ consecutive state championship titles in 2008 and 2007. Grad, an All-South Puget Sound League and All-State performer as a senior, averaged 21 points, 11 rebounds and five steals a game for the Ravens.
In addition, Grad earned MVP honors in league and the 3A state tournament. She led the Ravens to four consecutive state appearances.