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Coyote Student-Athlete Profile

Sam Mehr, Women’s Basketball

Sam Mehr

The excitement that University of South Dakota students, alumni, and fans feel for the move to the Summit League is shared by junior women’s basketball player Sam Mehr. The native of Apple Valley, Minn., joined the Coyotes for the 2009-2010season knowing that the team’s work over the past two seasons would be a building block for this season (first in Summit League) and next season (first year of eligibility for conference and NCAA tournament).

“I think we have gotten better as a team and just prepared ourselves for the tougher league play. It’s an exciting and fun time to play at USD.” Mehr said. “Last year, going to the postseason tournament (Women’s Basketball Invitational) and beating Idaho in the first round was definitely a highlight.”

The preparation for this season is showing some benefits as the Coyotes are 12-6 on the year and tied for fifth in the Summit League through nine games – and are just one game out of third place.

“We are looking forward to more conference play. We are enjoying the competition. Hopefully get another postseason spot,” Mehr said.

As far as academics go, Mehr points to a team accomplishment that shows the women’s basketball team’s commitment in the classroom.

“As a team we made it into the top 20 in Division I in overall GPA last year. It’s hard to balance academics and basketball. At the same time it helps you focus on learning,” she said.

Mehr is majoring in accounting and hopes to become a Certified Public Accountant after graduation.

Outside of school and basketball, Mehr enjoys spending time with friends and family.

“I just like to get as much family time as I can. I like to be outdoors and just hang out with friends and family as much as I can,” Mehr said.

Mehr also values the connections she has made while at USD. “I love the Coyote family, a great group of people. I love my teammates. Everyone has taught me a lot of things. It’s great being a Coyote.”

Why did you choose USD?
I honestly just liked the feeling that campus gave me. The coaches are great. The town of Vermillion is so tight knit and it is a great town to play basketball in.

Most embarrassing athletic moment at USD?
My sophomore year there was a fast break and I thought I could lob a pass to Jodie Boss and it was more of a line drive off the backboard. I threw the pass like she was LaBron James and could go up and get the ball.