Nixa’s Brooke Teter showed off her variety of skills during the Lady Eagles’ fourth-place finish at their own NIT last week.
Teter gained a reputation as a defensive dynamo during her sophomore season a year ago. She’s proving herself at the offensive end this winter.
Teter topped Nixa in scoring in the Lady Eagles’ first two NIT games. She netted a dozen points against Francis Howell Central and followed up with 16 points versus Republic.
She scored primarily in the paint, setting herself up for success by posting up in the paint, converting offensive rebounds into putbacks or slashing to the bucket.
The 5-foot-9 Teter is listed as a forward, but can also play like a center or even a guard.
“I’ve never had a specific role,” Teter said. “I’m not tall, but not short. I’m kind of in the middle. So, I’ve learned to play everywhere.”
Teter started and finished a couple Nixa fast breaks, bringing the ball downcourt and keeping it herself on her way to a layup
“I used to be really timid (with the ball), but have gotten comfortable with it these past few years,” she said.
Teter’s trademark remains her top-notch defense. Even as a forward, she routinely defends along the perimeter. Her defensive assignment against Republic was point guard Misora Nambora, whose MVP performance led the Lady Tigers to the tourney championship.
“She’s super quick and shifty. She can get downhill and get by any defender,” Teter said, giving Nambora all due props.
Teter can keep pace with point guards thanks to the footwork she has gained over the years playing soccer.
“My footwork is critical,” Teter said. “I can move well vertically and horizontally. I feel soccer helps in a lot of aspects.”
