Alexis Akin-Otiko (#45 / F / 5-11 / Sr.)
Akin-Otiko has waited for her opportunity to come along (Spomer/WBR)
For the previous three seasons of Alexis Akin-Otiko’s career at Creighton, the Bluejays had a veteran and decorated post player in Sarah Nelson. Most players in Akin-Otiko’s situation might not have handled things the same way. Some players would have sulked on the bench. Others would have transferred. Akin-Otiko has come of the bench to contribute during her first three seasons. A very decorated player herself in high school at Bellevue West, Akin-Otko has taken the college experience in stride, learning from Nelson and looking forward to her senior season as an opportunity to shine herself.
Akin-Otiko has appeared in every game throughout her Creighton career, posting increasingly positive stats along the way. Her minutes have gone from 10 a game as a freshman to just over 18 minutes last season.
Akin-Otiko had her best season as a Bluejay last year, playing crucial minutes down the stretch of games. She focused on providing a defensive presence, rather than looking for her shot. After grabbing 81 rebounds in each of the previous two seasons, she brought down 124 last year as a junior.
One of the facets to her game this season is three-point shooting. While she is only 2-of-13 in her career from behind the arc, that was one area that she focused on during the off-season. That will be just one more thing opponents will have to look out for on the court. Getting the opportunity to start this season will be a driving force behind her effort as well.
Head Coach Jim Flanery on Akin-Otiko:
“She had a tremendous summer. I think when you get to be a senior you understand how fleeting it all is. Not that she hasn’t worked hard in the past, but I think she worked even harder, and got herself in even better shape. She’s playing with confidence and has been a good leader. I’m excited about what she’s done.”
5-on-5 with Alexis Akin-Otiko:
Q: How has practice and preseason preparation gone for you so far?
A: “Pretty good. After three years you kind of get used to the routine. You kind of know what to expect, so it’s been pretty smooth.”
Q: What is one thing you focused on during the offseason to get ready for year two of the Big East?
A: “I worked on my fitness and increased my shooting range a little bit. My coaches have given me a lot of confidence to shoot it. When they give you the green light it’s easier to be confident in yourself. I’ve been shooting a lot before practice and after practice.”
Q: What are you looking forward to most about your senior season?
A: “I just want to get back to the NCAA Tournament. That’s my main focus and my main goal. My freshman and sophomore year I felt like I was spoiled just being able to go. Last year was just, not a disappointment, but we really wanted to go. Hopefully we can work to put ourselves in a good spot to get back there.”
Q: What was the biggest adjustment for you going from the Missouri Valley to the Big East?
A: “I feel like in the Missouri Valley there were a lot of three-point shooters and it was more screen-based. Now people are a lot quicker and there is more focus on driving and it’s harder to guard. The defensive adjustment has been more difficult.”
Q: How has the Championship Center helped you develop?
A: “I love it. There are no words. I’m so lucky I got one year here. No other place I’ve seen has this kind of stuff.”