Jan. 22, 2003

ABILENE, Texas - Senior guard Sarah Allen is a two-time All-ASC player who this year is averaging 10.8 points per game. Her best game this year was against Louisiana College where she had 18 points on 6-of-10 shooting and also added eight assists. Allen sat down for a quick question and answer period.

What do you think of this year's team? This year's team has so much talent and heart. A lot of players step up in different roles such as shooting and defense. This year we have a lot of players in the double digits and who are strong in defense.

How is this year's team different from your last three year's playing at Hardin-Simmons? This year we have five seniors who are leaders in their own way. We all push everyone to achieve the ultimate goal of making it to the final four.

How do you fit in the team dynamic? I am a team player. When I come off the bench, I always try to make something happen by running, passing the ball and shooting. I always encourage my teammates and try to keep the team morale up.

What are your strengths? I feel my strengths are when we get a rebound, I run the floor, defend and try to get steals.

What do you think about during a game? I focus on the girl I am defending and try to figure out how to stop her. I am also always aware of all of my teammates on the floor and if they need help. I get fired up on the big shots or a good pass.

What gets you motivated? I am a loud person. I like to yell and jump around to get myself fired up and hype the team up.

How do you feel about conference action so far? There are some tough teams in our conference, but we have to focus on them one game at a time. We are all aware that every team wants to beat us because we have dominated the conference. We have to take each game seriously. For example, last weekend against Mary Hardin-Baylor we were down, but we came back and everyone pitched in to win.

Are you meeting your personal goals you set in the beginning of the season? My personal goal for this year is to focus on making my free throw shots. It is important to hit them because they are easy baskets. I also want to concentrate on defense, to be aware of the ball and to steal when the opportunity comes.

What can we expect for the rest of the season from you and the team? We are going to be intense in every game. We have the desire, heart and talent to win and our incredible teamwork will get us to the final four.

What is your favorite memory about playing at Hardin-Simmons? I have so many great memories, especially my freshman year when we hosted the playoffs. To see Mabee Complex packed with hundreds of Cowgirl supporters, win the game and advance to the elite eight was awesome.

How is balancing being a student-athlete during basketball season? Well I graduated in three and a half years so I stayed focused on my school work.

What are your plans after Hardin-Simmons? I plan to attend graduate school and then work in the field of health care administration.

What is the key to the team's success? We worked hard in the preseason. Not one girl dropped out so everyone is dedicated to the program. We care about each other on and off the court which helps our teamwork stay on track.