Tatum West’s Journey to 500 Career Rebounds

Tatum West, a junior forward and center for the University of Northern Colorado (UNC) Bears women’s basketball team, is making a significant impact this season. She is nearly averaging double figures in both scoring and rebounding, which is no small feat in Division I college basketball. While her 10.7 points per game are impressive, it’s her 8.8 rebounds per game that stand out as a major accomplishment.

Rebounding has always been a key part of West’s game, and she recently reached a milestone that highlights her dedication. On January 10, during a win against Weber State, West grabbed her 500th career rebound. This achievement was not only a personal milestone but also shared with another UNC player, Brock Wisne, who reached the same mark on the same night.

West’s performance this season has placed her third in the Big Sky Conference in rebounds. The Bears have been on a four-game winning streak, and they enter their next game against Sacramento State with an overall record of 13-5 and a conference record of 4-1. Their last loss came in their conference opener against Montana State, the defending Big Sky regular-season and tournament champion.

Looking ahead, the Bears will face a challenging schedule, including a game against Montana State on Monday evening in Bozeman. This marks the third game in five days for the team, showcasing their resilience and determination.

West’s scoring average of 10.7 points per game places her second among UNC players and ranks her 24th in the conference. She joins three teammates on the top 25 scorers list. In 18 games played and started this year, West has recorded five games with a double-double. She is currently on a two-game double-double streak, having scored 16 points and grabbed 10 rebounds against Weber State and 13 points with 10 rebounds against Portland State.

Before joining UNC, West was a standout high school player in Combine, Texas, where she was known for her rebounding skills. She credits her growth at UNC to the coaching staff, particularly head coach Kristen Mattio, who emphasizes the importance of rebounding in the game.

The Importance of Will and Determination

The phrase “it’s all about the will and the want” is often used in UNC women’s basketball to describe effective rebounders. West embodies this philosophy, as she consistently goes after every rebound, regardless of the situation. Coach Mattio notes that West doesn’t accept a box out, meaning she doesn’t give up when a defender tries to block her from getting the ball.

West’s work ethic and determination have not gone unnoticed. Her height of 6-foot-2 makes her one of the taller players on the roster, but it’s her relentless effort that sets her apart. Mattio believes that the best rebounders don’t worry about whether they get the ball or not; they simply go after it.

The Bears’ strong rebounding performance this season can be attributed in large part to West and her teammate Aniah Hall, who averages 4.9 rebounds per game. According to Mattio, UNC ranks third in Division I in rebounding percentage, with a 54% success rate when the ball hits the rim.

“She doesn’t stand behind. She’ll just go around you,” Mattio said of West, highlighting her tenacity. The coaches saw this grit when West was a freshman, and it has become a defining characteristic of her game.

West’s journey to 500 career rebounds is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and passion for the game. As the Bears continue their season, West’s contributions on the court will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their success.