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November 12, 2009

Hammer time

By JEREMY SHORT

TAHLEQUAH DAILY PRESS — The Sequoyah girls’ basketball team has developed a strong tradition over the decade that includes three state championships and a runner-up finish.

The program has also sent three players to Division 1 colleges in that span, including Lady Indians senior Lindsey Hammer, who signed a letter of intent with Mercer University on Wednesday.

“It’s really exciting,” said Hammer. “I’ve already been there and I love it. I love the whole place.”

At Mercer, Hammer will join her older sister, Lorin, who signed with the school two years ago.

“I’m just tickled to death she’s going there,” said Lindsey’s father DeWayne. “I’m just a proud daddy right now. I’ve got two Division-1 basketball players. It’s amazing.”

With the Bears, Lindsey will be playing under head coach Janell Jones. Sequoyah coach Bill Nobles thinks Hammer will fit in well in Mercer’s system.

“Mercer has a similar philosophy that we run here,” said Nobles. “Coach Jones really likes to run the floor. I think that’s what they’re picturing for Lindsey. She’s a spot-up shooter who does other things and can play physical.”

As a freshman, Hammer was a contributing member on the school’s third consecutive state championship team. As a sophomore, she led the team in three-point shots on the way to a runner-up finish.

“Nikki [Lewis] and Lindsey grew up with the core of that group,” said Nobles. “They naturally kind of fit in with them. They slid right in there and it was like they had played with them for a long time.”

Last season, she led the team in scoring (16.3 ppg) and rebounds (8.1). If she continues her scoring pace this season, she is expected to end her high school career with over 1,500 points.

“She’s a really solid leader,” said Nobles. “That’s a direct reflection of her parents. She’s got great parents.”

In addition to playing basketball at Mercer, Hammer plans to pursue a career in medicine.

“I want to be a doctor,” said Hammer. “They have one of the best medical schools in the country.”

Hammer and her Sequoyah teammates tip off the season on Dec. 5 at Riverside.

“It helps a lot,” said Hammer of signing before the season. “It feels really good.”

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