The Jody Runge frenzy, at this point, has showed little signs of ruining one of the most successful eras in Oregon sports history.
In fact, with the addition of one of the most touted prep players on the West Coast, Runge’s program seems only to be getting stronger.
Catherria Turner, a 5-foot-6 point guard from Tucson, Ariz., signed a letter of intent Friday to join the Oregon women’s basketball team, which is still being investigated by a private law firm. Turner adds to the list of five other high school athletes who committed to the Ducks in the fall, making this year’s recruiting class one of the best ever.
Turner, who averaged 29 points, 11 rebounds, 10 steals and 4.7 assists during her senior season in high school, is expected to backup star point guard Shaquala Williams, who missed the entire 2000-01 season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in her left knee.
Turner was named the Arizona Player of the Year by the Arizona Daily Star and the Tucson Citizen.
“I just watched her play this past weekend,” Runge said in a released statement Friday. “Catherria’s a great athlete. She’s going to be a great addition to our program as a young point guard. She can shoot it and handle it. She’s quick and she can pressure shots on the defensive end.”
The guard-heavy Ducks also return soon-to-be juniors Alissa Edwards and Kourtney Shreve — who split time at the point last season — as well as senior Edniesha Curry, who sat out last season after transferring from Cal State-Northridge.
“[Catherria’s] going to have to get stronger,” Runge said. “She’s young, but she’s got a lot of talent and will have some opportunities to see the court.”
Five high school standouts signed with the Ducks last fall: center Andrea Bills (Moreno Valley, Calif./Moreno Valley High), guard Brandi Davis (La Habra, Calif./Sonora High), guard Kedzie Gunderson (Bellevue, Wash./Bellevue High), forward Amy Parrish (Hanford, Calif./Hanford High) and guard Amy Taylor (Shoreline, Wash./Shorewood High).
Runge’s team is being evaluated by Kansas City-based law firm Bond, Schoeneck and King. Oregon Athletic Director Bill Moos ordered the external investigation after he met with eight unidentified players, who requested that Runge be fired.
The firm, which is expected to be paid $24,500 for its services, could take another week or so to finish its report.
Runge adds sixth prep to recruit list
Daily Emerald
April 15, 2001
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