PROVO, Utah — For the third week in a row, BYU’s Kalani Purcell has been named the West Coast Conference Women’s Basketball Player of the Week.
The 6-foot-2 junior forward started in both games this past week, played all 40 minutes in each, during which she racked up a total 34 points, 40 rebounds, 12 assists, three steals and one block.
Purcell is playing her first year for the Cougars, after spending time in JUCO. The New Zealand native has helped keep BYU tied for first place in the latest WCC standings after going 6 for 6 from the three-point line against the Waves, and recording a career-high 18 points against the Lions.
Purcell was also surprised by her parents for her 21st birthday at the San Francisco game the week she earned the first award. They stayed for three weeks, getting to watch her play in six games.
Purcell said having her family cheer in the stands was a reminder of when they guided her to take shots and grab rebounds. She also attests the coaching staff for her success so far this year.
