NAOMI BYRD
Staff Writer
At first glance, her sweet and welcoming countenance makes it seem like Jessica Ross doesn’t have a mean bone in her body. That may be true, yet the second an opponent dare step on her court, prepare for an engaged and intense competitor.
“I am really competitive,” Ross adds. “Not in a bad way, I just love competition.”
The numbers don’t lie. Having just completed the season, Ross was one of the top scorers (227 points) for the Waves and led in (30.0) minutes per game. She carried an impressive 24-for-29 from the foul line and averaged 7.8 points a game. Mirroring those statistics, Ross scored a career-high 24 points in one game.
It all began in the fifth grade. Having played in numerous basketball camps, a desire was instilled deep within. It was then that she decided on pursuing her dream—playing college basketball.
Ross started all four years at Notre Dame High School in Salinas, Calif. She quickly became a strong leader throughout three undefeated seasons with the Spirits. She racked up 597 points as a senior, finishing with more than 2,000 points in her high school career. In addition, the team posted a record of 101-21 during her tenure. Having devoted much time and skill with the Spirits, this sophomore passionately continues her game while she rides with the Waves.
“I really love it here. Pepperdine is such a beautiful place.”
Schools persistently scouted Ross during high school. It came down to U.C. Santa Barbara, The University of Portland and Pepperdine. Looking around her as she described her final choices… the bright sunlight illuminating her smile. “I think I made the right decision.”
Continuing in her enthusiasm about Pepperdine’s numerous opportunities, Ross shares her plans to study abroad in Florence for the summer.
“I am so excited… it is going to be an amazing experience.”
Alongside her natural talent, Ross works tremendously in order to perform at the expected college level.
“Playing in college involves a huge time commitment, Ross says. “The difference from high school is mainly how much time it consumes.”
Ross described a typical, rigorous three-and-a-half hour day during the season.
“Usually days consist of working out, lifting, running, watching team videos, and attending team meetings.”
Another important factor, according to Ross, is the requirement of pushing yourself.
“Going to classes, doing homework, studying for tests, going to practice, playing or traveling to games—you learn how to balance. Social life? (laughs)…This is my life.”
The team has become family. During game time, on or off the court, you can hear Ross pushing and encouraging her teammates, “Let’s go Waves!”
Naming specific places that have been her favorite to play, Ross admits, “It’s really fun going home. I get to have all my family cheering for me, supporting me as I play.”
Ross described her 11 year-old little brother, Jack. His quirky actions could simply be defined as admiration of his older sister.
“He wears my shoes, Pepperdine hats—he just loves to hang out with the team. He is so funny. He’ll go up to some of the girls, just to talk with them like they’re his buddies. He cracks me up.”
Ross is grateful to have the family support her in her season of life. She recognizes the numerous sacrifices that this “job” requires. What may be a passion also can become your life. For now, Ross has accepted this fact.
Ross went on to describe a huge motivation for her and what keeps her going.
“It helps that I love playing basketball—but mainly, it’s my teammates. We have a really good team with a lot of talent. No matter how different everyone is, you bond no matter what.”
With teammates from Kansas, Texas, Washington, Hawaii and even Canada, Ross enjoys each individual’s unique attribution.
“We’re still kind of a young team… It takes commitment—staying committed to show what we are capable of.”
Ross hopes to be in the NCAA tournament next year. That is her goal.
“We just need to build on what we started with last year, and then we’ll get there.”
The Waves have indeed shown incredible ability. Earlier in the season, they defeated Rutgers in overtime. Rutgers went on to beat the No. 2 team in the nation.
“We have definite potential. It’s there. That game really proved it.”
With the tenacity and intense drive to succeed, Ross believes wholeheartedly in what the Waves are able to become. With Ross’ competitive spirit and her strong sense of leadership, the Waves are sure to storm the shore of success.
04-23-2007