Jeanette Anderson
Jeanette Anderson hopes to play professional basketball one day in the United States [WNBA] or overseas.
The 20-year-old Caldwell College sophomore and former Lynn English star will get her first chance to impress international pro scouts next May when she travels to Italy to play for a USA national team in a tournament featuring teams from the Dominican Republic, Germany, Italy, and other European nations.
The program is part of the American International Sports Teams [AIST] Tour.
Jeanette’s mother, Betty, has already begun fundraising efforts for her daughter’s trip to Italy. A crowd of family and friends enjoyed a get-together at Community Brotherhood Friday night and a brunch fundraiser will be held at Tatiana’s Restaurant on December 24. The goal is to raise $5,000.
Jeanette was unable to attend Friday’s fundraiser due to her college commitments in New Jersey but she will be in town for the Christmas Eve day brunch.
“It’s exciting to be part of an international basketball tour,” said Anderson. “I’m honored that my coach nominated me to represent our country overseas in basketball.”
Anderson said she has never traveled outside the United States.
“This experience will give me the opportunity to explore a new culture while also learning valuable life lessons through personal experience,” said Anderson. “I appreciate that the people of Lynn are helping me toward my goals.”
A 6-foot forward, Anderson averaged 14 points and nine rebounds in her freshman season at Division 2 Caldwell. She was named the league’s Rookie of the Year.
Anderson developed her skills at English under the tutelage of head coach Fred Hogan. Anderson helped lead the Lady Bulldogs to the top of the Northeastern Conference Large and was named Most Valuable Player.
Anderson is looking forward to Caldwell’s game against Stonehill College Friday. Former St. Mary’s High School standout Tori Faieta is the starting center for Stonehill.
“I played against Tori in the Lynn City Tournament,” said Anderson. “My coach told me she’s looking really good. They run the offense around her.”
Anderson also offered her congratulations to the Lynn English football team on winning the conference championship Friday night.
“That’s great for them and the school,” said Anderson.