Océane Kounkou grew up shooting hoops in Gatineau, Que., with dreams that her basketball skills would earn her a university education and lead to a professional playing career. Her goal was to attend a top program in the U.S. at a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) member institution, but she was also open to attending a U Sports member university in Canada.
She ended up having both experiences.
Ms. Kounkou spent two seasons soaking up the energy of big crowds while playing at the University of Buffalo, but the business-like approach of the Division I program didn't meet her expectations for development.
A switch to Carleton University in Ottawa has been the perfect fit. "I was able to get more of a learning curve and build a relationship with my coaches in U Sports," says the 25-year-old shooting guard, who's in her third season and final year of eligibility at Carleton.
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