Gregory inks NLI with Lady Blues in early period

Nov. 10, 2005

Washburn women's basketball coach Ron McHenry announced the signing of Milton, Kan. native Hope Gregory to a letter of intent in the early signing period.

Gregory, a 5-10 guard from Cheney High School, is a three-time first team all-league and all-state selection. She had averaged 14.3 points, 8.3 rebound, 2.7 assists and 2.8 steals in her first three seasons.

"Hope is an outstanding all-around basketball player that has shined throughout her high school career," said McHenry. "We are very excited to add a player of her ability to our program. She is a great scorer and can rebound and defend."

As a freshman Gregory averaged 9.9 points, 4.9 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.7 steals per game to earn all-league and honorable mention all-state honors to help Cheney to a fourth place finish at the Class 3A state tournament.

As a sophomore she averaged 14.4 points, 9.6 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 3.3 steals a game to earn all-league, and second team all-state honors to help the Cardinals to a Sub-State championship.

As a junior last season she averaged 18.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 3.7 steals a game to earn all-league, and first team all-state honors to help the squad to a runner-up finish at Sub-State.

"With her versatility Hope has the ability to play a number of positions for us. She has played everywhere from teh point guard to the wing position in high school," said McHenry. "She brings a winning mentality after playing for a successful program at Cheney."

Gregory was also a first team all-state selection in volleyball as a junior and finished second in the discus and javelin at the Class 3A state track meet in 2005.

Gregory is the first signee for the Lady Blues, who went 35-2 and won the NCAA Division II National title in 2005. Washburn will host UMKC in an exhibition 4 p.m. Sunday in Lee Arena before heading to the Missouri Southern Classic Nov. 18-19 to open the season.