Feb. 16, 2005

The post moves around the rim are nice, and the rebounding ability is just as crucial.

But Jennifer Lacy (Agoura) has added an element to her game that even an opponent's best defender can't contain.

"I think I am more mature," said the Pepperdine senior. "You kind of grow up and realize your potential and get a better understanding of the game as you get older. I think that has happened for me this year."

The confluence of skill and experience have led to a breakout season for Lacy. The 6-foot-3 forward is averaging 17.4 points and 8.7 rebounds for the Waves.

In a game against the University of San Francisco last week, Lacy had what she considers her finest collegiate performance.

She scored a career-high 34 points, including a layup with 3 seconds remaining to send the game into overtime, and two free throws with 12 seconds left in the overtime to send the game into double overtime.

While Pepperdine lost, 84-81, Lacy knew she did all she could to keep the Waves in the game.

"That last-second shot was really exciting," said Lacy. "I feel like I am getting better each game. Each team throws something different at you, and you have to learn to be patient and adjust."

Perhaps the biggest adjustment Lacy made this season was adapting to a new coaching staff when Julie Rousseau replaced Mark Trakh, who took the job at USC.

"It was tough at first, but it has been really, really great for the most part," said Lacy. "They have come in and brought a lot of energy and enthusiasm. We are not winning as much as we would like, but we are having a great time."

Lacy still has a shot to end her collegiate career in the NCAA Tournament if Pepperdine wins the West Coast Conference Tournament and earns the conference's automatic bid.

"We are just trying to get as many wins as possible to get a good seed," said Lacy. "I think we can still win the WCC Tournament and get there. We are doing everything we can to get that goal."

Whenever her season ends, Lacy plans to keep in shape in hopes of playing professionally somewhere next year.

"We'll just see where basketball takes me," said Lacy. "If not, I will probably attend grad school somewhere. But I would love to still play."