We are profiling each member of the 2011-12 Creighton women’s basketball team. Join us weekdays from now until the women’s exhibition opener against Rockhurst for an introduction to this year’s Bluejays, from freshmen to seniors.
See all of our 2011-12 Creighton women’s basketball profiles
Kamphaus looks to patrol the middle this season (Creighton Women's Basketball)
If you ever need a partner in a dance contest, you might want to get a hold of Alyssa Kamphaus. She definitely has some moves that she was able to display at Bluejay Madness while learning from the best.
“Carli Tritz. I have been watching her a lot. I just kind of came up with the stuff,” said Kamphaus. “I don’t usually do that.”
With those moves on the basketball court, you may want to stay out of the lane.
Kamphaus heads into 2011-2012 looking to make a bigger contribution on the court. With Kellie and Sarah Nelson taking care of things in the post last season, Kamphaus saw limited minutes. However, those minutes were effective. Projecting her stats shows that had she played closer to a full game, she might have averaged a double-double of 19 points and 10 rebounds a game.
With Kellie Nelson now graduated, Kamphaus has the opportunity to use her 6-3 frame to control the paint.
“I’ve worked on getting into better shape and working a lot on free throws, along with the 15-footer too,” she said.
One example of her potential was her first MVC appearance last season against Evansville. Kamphaus went 5-for-5 from the field, including her first career 3-point attempt, for a career-high 12 points in just 7 minutes. She played a season-high 16 minutes against Bradley in early February, and scored 8 quick points against Southern Illinois in just 10 minutes of play. Her confidence is improving heading into this season.
“I feel like I have gained a lot of confidence,” said Kamphaus. “I have learned a lot from Kellie Nelson last year and I have been able to work on a lot of stuff this summer. I know I need to play with a bigger impact than I did last year.”
Her role on the team continues to evolve and is excited to make a bigger contribution.
“I hope I make a bigger impact. I’ll do whatever coach Flan needs me to do — stop a post player from scoring several points, get rebounds, or even cheer from the bench. Hopefully I can help.”
The schedule, while always tough, brings a smile to Alyssa’s face. She is looking forward to some of the games this season, especially going up against a high school friend.
“Notre Dame will be a lot of fun, but also Nebraska because Emily Cady was one of my teammates. I’ve played with her since fifth grade, so it will be fun playing against her instead of with her.”
Kamphaus is ready to start the season and glad that Creighton is her home.
“I absolutely love it. It feels like a family environment. If I had to choose it over again, I would do it a million times. I just love it here.”