As one of only three sophomores on the 2013-14 College of the Canyons women’s basketball team, guard Jennifer Franco has become a leader among the freshman-heavy team. Her focus on the court and in the classroom has made her a valuable mentor to COC’s first-year players.

On how long she has been playing basketball…
I’ve been playing basketball since I was say 9 years old, so about 10 years.

On deciding to play at COC…
At first I was indecisive about going to a university (California State University, Northridge, or San Francisco State University) and I wasn’t sure whether to leave home yet. The COC coaches came and talked to me and said, “You should come here. It’s a winning program.” That’s what I like to do, win. So I thought it wouldn’t hurt to come over here and just try it out. I came here and I loved it.

On how she feels high school basketball differs from college basketball…
I feel college basketball is more serious. You have to work a lot harder than you do in high school, because the intensity of the game is more elevated.

On her favorite aspect of basketball…
Going out there and being able to do all you can and just leave it on the court. For me, I like shooting 3s, so whenever I have a chance, I go and shoot it.

On what sport she would have wanted to play, if she hadn’t played basketball…
When I was little I wanted to play soccer, not basketball. But my mom didn’t really have anyone to take me. Basketball was the only one that was at night, when my dad came out of work. I just stuck with basketball.

On what the Cougars have to do against Allan Hancock this weekend to win…
We have to play like a team. Bring out energy and heart. Our team needs to bring its game and have each other’s back and I think we will be able to pull off a win.

On what she is going to miss about being a Cougar…
Everything. It was a good experience, playing basketball and meeting new people. I made different connections with a lot of different people.

On her next step…
I’m looking to transfer to a university. Either California State University, Northridge, or California State University, Dominquez Hills. Hopefully I will able to play there.

On how she plans to keep basketball in her life once she is done playing…
After I’m done playing I would join adult leagues so that I’m still able to play the sport I love. I would also like to coach young kids and teach them about the game.

On her major and her career goals…
My major is kinesiology. I want to be a physical therapist.

On what she likes to do in her free time…
In my free time I like to hang out with my family and friends and enjoy it as much as possible. My hobbies are listening to music and watching movies, and shopping.

On her favorite food…
Pizza.

On the craziest thing she has ever done…
I’ve gone parasailing in Cabo.

On her favorite guard in the NBA…
Kobe Bryant.

Written by Sports Information Intern Leilani Konrad