Five Questions: Raeyana DeGray

LITTLE ROCK – Sophomore Raeyana DeGray will look for an increase in playing time as a sophomore after a freshman season where she played in 11 games for the Trojans.

What's the biggest lesson you took from last season?
Everyone's role is important whether you're a player or a manager. It's not just the people on the court that matter the most, because at the end of the day we all have to prepare each other in order to get ready for a game and win.
 
How do you recover after a hard loss?
I try not to dwell on it too much and forget about it because everyone else has already forgotten about it. You can only improve from a hard loss.
 
What is it like playing in front of large home crowds?
I would say it is a little nerve-racking. At home (in high school) we would have big crowds to play in front of, but that was different because we know everyone from our hometown. Playing in front of strangers sometimes can make you a little nervous, but it's exciting also.
 
How do you expect your role to change this season?
I know a lot more will be on my shoulders this year, and a lot more will be expected from Coach Foley. Last year he would tell me that I was needed, but I didn't feel that way. However, with our summer workouts he was really good about letting me know what I need to improve on in order to help out the team.
 
What is it like being on a team with your sister?
It really just feels the same because we've played together since middle school. However, it is really cool to know that someone always has your back. She cooks for me sometimes and it's also really nice to have someone that can contribute to gas money with you.