Lady Bronc Basketball Signs Sara Navarro and Clarisse Arredondo To National Letters of Intent.

EDINBURG, TX - The University of Texas-Pan American Women’s Basketball program announced today the signings of Clarisse Arredondo and Sara Navarro to play for the Lady Broncs in the upcoming 2001-2002 season.

Arredondo, a 5-11 forward from McAllen, TX, averaged 6.0 points and 2.8 rebounds in 27 games last season while at Centenary College.  A local product that starred at McAllen High earning All-District and All-Area MVP honors while playing for the Bulldogs. 

“I’ve always wanted to be a part of the women’s basketball program at The University of Texas Pan American” Arredondo said.  “I feel that the program at UTPA is really taking off with the great coaching staff they have in place.  I am honored to be getting the opportunity to play under their coaching staff and, I am very excited about my upcoming years as a Lady Bronc.”

"Clarisse is a great addition to our program," said Head Coach Karin Nicholls. "Her athleticism and work ethic should allow her to excel at this level.  Sitting out next season will give her a great opportunity to improve her game without having the pressure of competing" Nicholls added.

Sara Navarro, a 5-7 point guard from Houston, TX, comes to UTPA from San Jacinto Junior College where she averaged 10.0 points and 6.0 assists a game. “The coaching staff recruited from their hearts,” commented Navarro.  “I love their vision to be successful and their genuine and true character as people.”

“Sara brings great experience to our program” said Coach Nicholls.  “She will help us extend our defense with her speed and quickness.  She is a tremendous leader with great instinct for the game.  Her biggest asset is her ability to see the floor and put her teammates in a position to score.”

Arredondo and Navarro join Nikki Hitchens, Amanda Carlow, and Jennifer Piwonka as new signees for the Lady Broncs who will lose three seniors to graduation.