20-02-2025
Wadsworth flourishing in sophomore season with USF
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — From small town South Dakota to Division II basketball, Kami Wadsworth has made a name for herself at the University of Sioux Falls in just her sophomore season.
Wadsworth was a mutil-year starter and standout at Hamlin High School. She scored nearly 1,900 points and in her senior season, won a state title, while being named the 2023 KELOLAND Sports Girls Basketball Player of the Year.
'I couldn't think or describe a better feeling on the way to go out other than on top,' Wadsworth said. 'It was quite a season.'
All of that success brought attention to Wadsworth at a young age, including USF and head coach Travis Traphagen.
'I thought she'd be a good player when we got her and we got her really early,' Traphagen said. 'I had no idea that she'd be what she is now.'
The first step was adjusting to the college game. Kami spent hours in the gym, reshaping her approach to fit USF's game plan.
'Coach Trap wanted me to work a lot on my face up game. Getting into the pro-post, where I could use my speed and quickness to get around, instead of more back to the basket,' Wadsworth said.
Wadsworth was named NSIC Freshman of the Year last season, but that was just the beginning. Kami is scoring 18 points per game, four more than a season ago. She's also shooting an impressive 47% from the field and 45% from beyond the arch.
'I think the game has slowed down a little bit for sure. Definitely knowing where the doubles are coming from or gelling with this team,' Wadsworth said.
'She's got a lot better on the glass. She's shooting the basketball well and she's passing it,' Traphagen said. 'Every coach should be biased, but I just think with the type of teammate she is, the work ethic and this and that… I wouldn't trade her for another post player in this league.'
Wadsworth and the Cougars are in the hunt for a top four spot in the NSIC. They'll play at Northern State and U-Mary.
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