Senior Loretta Atkinson saw her role with the Rochelle Lady Hub varsity basketball team continue to grow after transitioning up from the junior varsity level.
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ROCHELLE — Senior Loretta Atkinson saw her role with the Rochelle Lady Hub varsity basketball team continue to grow after transitioning up from the junior varsity level. Atkinson will shoot to keep sharpening her skills as she continues her academics and her athletics at Kishwaukee College. Atkinson signed with the Lady Kougars earlier this year.
“I chose Kishwaukee College because it’s close to home and to all of my family members,” Atkinson said. “I also chose Kishwaukee College because it has a lot of opportunities to further my education. I’m looking forward to furthering my knowledge of the game. I’m excited to meet new teammates and learn from new coaches. I’m excited to bring my shooting and my energy.”
Atkinson played four years of basketball for the Lady Hubs, spending her junior season on the JV team before becoming a regular varsity contributor during her senior season. Atkinson appeared in 27 games during the 2023-24 season, averaging 4.3 points, 1.6 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game. Atkinson was named Rochelle’s Most Improved Player Award winner.
“My junior and senior years at Rochelle have pushed me to become the player I am now,” Atkinson said. “Without coach Gehm, coach [Kevin] Hunt and coach [Matt] McMeekan, I probably would not play in college. My coaches pushed me harder than ever to better myself… When I was a freshman, I always played at a lower level than my friends, so knowing that, I pushed myself to be a better ball handler, shooter and a better defensive and offensive player.”
Atkinson is currently enrolled in a nursing course with the KEC program. Atkinson said she intends to study nursing at Kishwaukee College in hopes of using her education to help others.
“Loretta really stepped up for the team during the second half of the season,” RTHS head coach Jon Gehm said. “She hit some big shots for us in clutch moments and was always ready to shoot. Loretta always stayed ready for when her number was called and was ready to produce. That trait will be key for her at the next level. Loretta also showed a lot of toughness throughout the year. She was one of our best offensive rebounders and she led us in charges drawn.”
