| Diandra Tchatchouang |
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Frese on Tchatchouang
"We've only had Diandra for a few months and I can already say she is one of the most self-motivated and self-sufficient players I've ever coached. I think she is incredibly gifted. I admire her courage to move to a foreign country and take on challenges. There is going to be a transition period both on an off the court, but her future is very exciting."
Before Maryland
One of the top European prospects ... led her native France to the 2007 U16 European championship, earning most valuable player honors in the process ... had a solid eight-game showing in the 2008 U18 European Championship, as well, averaging better than 15 points and five rebounds per game on 58.2 percent shooting with two blocks and a steal per game on average ... scored 27 points in her final game against the Czech Republic.
Personal
Diandra Tchatchouang ... daughter of Eugene Tchatchouang and Jeannelte Noganmy ... has four siblings: Pola, Ciryl, Raelys and Romuald ... biggest sports thrill is winning the European Championship ... favorite athlete is LeBron James ... lists heroes as U.S. President Barack Obama and her parents ... enjoys soccer, listening to music and singing ... chose Maryland for the coaching staff and the family spirit surrounding the program.
One-on-One with Diandra Tchatchouang
Q: Why did you choose Maryland?
A: I chose Maryland because [I've known] this University for four years and since I followed their results. Another reason is the family spirit and the staff.
Q: What does it mean to you to now be a Terp?
A: I am coming in a big family now and I am excited. And, you know, every season Lady Terps is a really good team so it is a big honor to be here.
Q: What are your expectations for your freshman season?
A: I hope to help my teammates by bringing what I can on the court and off the court. Personally, I want to progress in each area of my basketball.
Q: How have you been spending your summer?
A: In June and at the beginning of July I was enjoying the last moments with my family and then I came here to do the STEP program for incoming freshman and to meet my new teammates. [At the same time,] I am doing my ankle rehab.
Q: Who has been the biggest influence on you in terms of basketball?
A:The biggest influence is me because I am really ambitious and determined in terms of basketball. I need it. Then I will say my family because they are my first support. My parents are always encouraging me.
Q: What has been your biggest sport thrill?
A: With my French national team, we won the European Championship two years ago and I was named MVP of the competition. It's my best souvenir of basketball.
Q: If you could sit down and have a conversation with three people, living or dead, whom you've never met, who would they be?
A: Barack Obama, Martin Luther King Jr., Lebron James
