Mwenentanda eager for opportunity with Vanderbilt
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Ndjakalenga Mwenentanda is a former Washington high school standout, who just made a run to the Final Four with Texas. Now, she's on the move to another SEC School.
Ndjakalenga played three season with the Texas Longhorns, appearing in 37 games this past year as a junior. She started in 15 games, including the Final Four contest against South Carolina.
'I love Texas and I got what I needed out of Texas. I got my degree,' Mwenentanda said. 'I just wanted something different.'
Mwenentanda entered the transfer portal following her junior season. 35 teams reached out to her, but she had to picky, knowing she has just one year of eligibility left.
'Being a part of some rebuilding process wouldn't have allowed me enough time. I had to look at the options that were the best fit for me, as far as teams that were a little bit more established,' Mwenentanda said.
Another factor in Ndjakalenga's decision was the ability to help fill her goals, which include playing basketball beyond college.
'The goal is to play pro basketball and that's why I entered to portal, to see where I can best take that stepping stone to achieve my goal of playing basketball,' Mwenentanda said.
Her decision brought her to the Music City of Nashville, becoming the newest player for Vanderbilt.
'There are a lot of girls on the team that want to go pro. I know, being in a final four atmosphere, you've got to have everybody that really wants it,' Mwenentanda said. 'Those who are willing to sacrifice and put time towards the same goal.'
While Ndjakalenga is taking her talents to Vandy, her heart will always be in South Dakota, a state providing plenty of support for the Sioux Falls native.
'I grew up in Sioux Falls and I've still got friends I keep in touch with. I keep in touch with Parish over at Washington as well,' Mwenentanda said. 'I think Sioux Falls definitely has a permanent place in my heart, because of what it has provided me.'
Mwenentanda will make some trips back and forth to Nashville throughout the summer as she gets ready for the basketball season later this year.
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