As she hits her stride on the international stage, a local basketball star is being honoured at home.
Chatham’s Bridget Carleton was named one of five all-stars following the women’s basketball world cup earlier this month, helping Canada to a fourth place finish.
The 25-year-old, who is preparing for her 4th season in the WNBA, averaged 12.8 points per game at the tournament.
She says it’s a surreal feeling, but also a great honour to serve as an inspiration for the next generation.
“Now, women’s sports is more visible than ever, so being part of that and helping inspire the next generation is what it’s all about,” Carleton explains. “I was inspired by my mom when I was growing up because I saw first-hand what I could do through the sport through her, so I hope to be that for somebody else.”
Carleton says an upcoming tribute at her alma mater, John McGregor Secondary School later this month is very special.
“It’s meant the world. I spent so much time in that gym, the Larry Lahey Gym, working on my game, fell in love with that game in that gym, played four years at McGregor. It’s a special place for me and always so comforting going back there and getting shots up on that hoop, so it’ll be a really cool night.”
Bridget Carleton Night is set for Friday, October 28th, before the McGregor Panthers senior girls’ team takes on LKCS. At halftime, the Wildcats’ under-13 team will hit the court for an intrasquad game.
The event is free for all to attend.
