Before the start of the summer, Shyla Kuehl didn't know a lot about the UND women's basketball program and its rich history.
But she's learned a lot about the Sioux over the summer.
And Kuehl will learn even more about UND over the next few years.
Kuehl, a 6-foot-2 high school senior-to-be at Hustisford, Wis., gave UND a verbal commitment Tuesday. Kuehl was a dominant player at Hustisford last season, averaging 14.4 points, 12.6 rebounds and 2.7 blocked shots per game.
She also was the Trailways Conference South Division player of the year. Over the summer, Kuehl played AAU basketball and began to draw recruiting interest from the Sioux and other schools.
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Kuehl also was recruited by Wisconsin-Green Bay, Wisconsin-Milwaukee and the University of Illinois-Chicago -- all Division I schools.
But Kuehl decided UND was the best fit for her collegiate basketball plans.
"I went up there and had a great visit," Kuehl said. "It felt like the perfect fit. I got along with the coaches and I really like the girls."
Kuehl had never been in North Dakota before her visit, which occurred last week.
UND is entering its first season as a Division I program. As a result, the Sioux won't be eligible for postseason play until the 2012-13 season.
But the lack of playoffs -- a Sioux staple for years as a Division II power -- wasn't a factor in Kuehl's decision.
"I just want to have a good experience playing college basketball," Kuehl said.
UND is scheduled to play Wisconsin-Green Bay next season, which could be the start of annual games between the schools.
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Kuehl said she'd love to attend the game, which is about a two-hour drive from her home. But she won't be able to go because her high school team has a game scheduled that night.
Kuehl said she's hoping her high school team can take another step in her final season. Last season, Hustisford -- with Kuehl leading the way -- advanced to the section semifinal round.
Nelson reports on sports. Reach him at (701) 780-1268; (800) 477-6572, ext. 268; or send e-mail to wnelson@gfherald.com .
