Deniya Thornton, Caitlin Travis, and Alissa Odell posed with trophies in Hall of Fame.
Loyola University New Orleans had the opportunity to send three members of their women’s basketball team to Greece over the summer. They traveled to be able to expand their basketball skill sets and experience the game abroad through three high-level games against local teams.
They were also able to build long-lasting connections with new teammates as they enjoyed local excursions and celebrated the thrill of international play together. Deniya Thornton (#15), a junior from New Roads, Louisiana majoring in criminal justice; Alissa O’Dell (#14), a junior from Zachary, Louisiana, majoring in history education; and Caitlin Travis (#10), a junior from Walker,
Louisiana, majoring in computer science.
All three athletes said that it was not only a blessing, but an honor to be selected to represent the Wolfpack with not only grit, but also humbleness. From the moment they found out about the opportunity, O’Dell was the first to say that they should go while Thornton and Travis were hesitant about the idea.
With a little influence they decided to take on the challenge. All three athletes are glad they did. All athletes were thankful and said that they felt beyond blessed for the opportunity that they were given.
“Playing in Greece requires a lot more physically demanding gameplay. They’re super aggressive and tough out there. They get away with a lot of hard-moving screens. The referees also let you play a more physical game overseas,” Travis said.
Thornton agreed with Travis.
“Euro ball is very different from U.S ball. They don’t play as fast as we do. They run lots of plays with screens …. to throw you off. [It’s a] very physical game as well. Refs aren’t calling little bumps.” Thornton said.
While in Greece they stayed focused on their goals, keeping themselves disciplined while also experiencing a new culture.
“Every time I stepped on the court, it was business. Off the court, it was vacation. I’ve grown up disciplined enough to switch in between the two,” Travis said
Off the court, that balance gave Travis the chance to take in everything Greece had to offer.
“There were so many things to see and explore in Greece. So many different cultural practices, foods, music, and dancing. Some things that the athletes were able to learn are that they are really passionate about the game. It brings out the community for everyone to feel as one. They hang up posters of Greek NBA players at open basketball courts. The athletes described this opportunity as a “Once in a lifetime, blessing, and favored,” Travis said.
For Travis, the trip highlighted the unity and passion that basketball sparks in Greece, while for O’Dell, the experience carried a deeper purpose.
“We are favored because we were chosen for this opportunity for a reason, so we are favored by God. Maybe all three of us will be playing overseas together one day,” O’Dell said.
Going out of the country to play basketball would have been challenging without a great support system. They all agreed that God, their parents, and themselves are their biggest support system.
“My biggest supporter is myself. Yes, my parents do support me, but they don’t know the ups and downs of collegiate basketball. I do it for myself and everyone who doubts me”. O’Dell said.
Thornton says that her biggest support system is her mother.
“She’s been my coach, mentor, mother, and friend when it comes to talking about the game. We are huge basketball nerds so we just love it. Whether I’m playing or not.” Thornton said.
For her, basketball isn’t just about her own journey, it’s also about honoring her mom.
“She didn’t get to play in college, so I feel like it’s my duty to get her as close to that experience as she can, as well as take the most financial burden off of her which is paying for college and student loans by going to school for free through doing something I love.” Thornton said.
The players found themselves immersed in a culture that embraced both the game and the county around them.
“Visiting Greece was an unforgettable experience. From breathtaking scenery, to getting to learn its history and culture, as well as playing with and against some great players, it has granted me memories that will stick with me forever.” Travis said.
