Athlete of the Week: Gerleanzy Ganadonegro

Magdalena’s Gerleanzy is one of the top players currently on the Lady Steers basketball team.
Greg Byrd | El Defensor Chieftain

A junior Steers guard, Gerleanzy Ganadonegro is an integral part of the Magdalena transition offense on the floor.

Question: How long have you been playing basketball for the Steers?

Answer: Around five years. Before then, I played in AAU. Us girls played in places like Mescalero or Albuquerque. One time we played in Colorado. Any place we could find a game.

Q: Are you a Magdalena native?

A: I was born in Socorro and my mom brought me back to Alamo, which is where I currently live.

Q: What is the most important part about being a good basketball player?

A: Trying to achieve your goals. When I was a kid, I wanted to achieve everything watching the NBA players. My goal is to try and play for college.

Q: What is the best aspect of your game?

A: I try to distribute to the other players on my team. When it’s not working, I work to score any way that I can.

Q: What part of your game would you like to work on most?

A: Scoring more points. Making my teammates better. Finding better passes for my girls.

Q: What is the best part about being a part of the Steers team?

A: Hanging around with the girls because they are like family. I wouldn’t trade anything for that. They don’t stop and they don’t give up. You cannot replace that.

Q: How do you plan on getting to the next level as a player?

A: Working harder everyday. It starts with my shots and running during practice.

Q: What is your favorite sport that you do not play?

A: Volleyball. It’s fun to watch and I love how the players hit the ball. That is a sport I can sit back and enjoy in the stands.

Q: Who is your favorite athlete?

A: Michael Jordan. He’s the best basketball player. He could do everything. Jordan achieved everything he sought out to do in his life as an athlete.

Q: What would you tell a younger player coming up as a competitor?

A: Do your best. Never give up and achieve whatever it is you can do.

Q: If you could have dinner with any famous person, who would that be?

A: Kobe. He died too young and he was trying to achieve bigger goals that we all strive for. It would be great to hear what knowledge he had to give.