Chanelle Harris (Philadelphia, PA/Penn Wood) (Philadelphia, PA, Penn Wood) is arguably one of the best players in Lincoln University women's basketball history. (Check out the Chanelle Harris (Philadelphia, PA/Penn Wood) photo gallery)
This may sound a bit much, but consider these points. Harris stepped right in out of Penn Wood High School in Philadelphia and was a huge component in Lincoln's 2006 record-setting team. This squad, led by fellow Lady Lion greats Mary Rotimi and Asha Atkinson, won a program-record 19 games and the Association of Division III Championship.
Oh yeah, she also holds the record for assists with 404. Take into effect her superb leadership on and off the court, and you have yourself the makings of a great student-athlete.
Harris' memorable basketball career ended on February 19, against Saint Paul's College (Lincoln won 61-56). Her playing days are far from over however. The lifelong baller has a feast of events to fill her apatite for the hardwood. Harris will participate in the 2010 Australia Summer Basketball Tour.
In July, the 5-foot-3 point guard will also test her skills against the top players at two WNBA combines in Washington, D.C. Harris' dream is to play alongside or against her idol: former University of Connecticut and current Connecticut Sun point guard Renee Montgomery.
But before Harris takes a look at her future, she has spent time reflecting on the special moments during her Lincoln career. One of those moments included senior night during that February night. Harris, the squad's lone senior was honored for her four year contributions on the hardwood.
Flanked by her mother, grandmother, sister, brother, and others in her immediate support system, Harris filled with emotion after being introduced to the Lincoln faithful one last time.
“Senior night was fun” a reflective Harris said. “I went out with a bang. I really enjoyed playing my last game with my teammates and having us come together and end with a win.”
Harris made the most of her last collegiate experience, putting up 13 and hounding the offense with four steals.
Despite ending her career with two straight wins, the Philadelphia native admits to being frustrated with the lack of victories this past season. With a team of nine freshmen, Harris understood the crucial role in being the leader for her teammates.
“It was very difficult after all the hard work we put in” said Harris. “When you are playing a sport that you love, you expect to win every time you step on the court. It was another experience that I won't forget. We held our heads high and stuck by our program.”
Harris helped head coach Andy Haman form a solid backcourt after she leaves campus. First year players Brittney Waters (Capitol Heights, Md./Charles H. Flowers) (Capitol Hieghts, MD, Charles H. Flowers) and Danielle Smallwood (Philadelphia, PA/West Catholic) (Philadelphia, PA, West Catholic) matured into the college game in 2009. Experienced guards Sharay DuBose (Salisbury, Md./Parkside HS) (Salisbury, MD, Parkside), DeJuana Mosley (Chester, PA/Chester) (Chester, PA, Chester)and Sasha Evans (Hampton, VA/Phoebus) (Hampton, VA, Phoebus) also valued their time under the guidance of Harris.
Haman notes that this leadership was evident in her first year.
“Chanelle Harris (Philadelphia, PA/Penn Wood) was very important in the rebuilding of the women's program,” Haman said. “Her leadership during the 06-07 season produced the best season in women's (Lincoln) basketball history.”
Despite the praises of Haman, Harris still realizes the hard process of being a leader.
“At times, I had to be the bad guy just to let them know that we are better than what we are displaying” Harris said. “Having a young team made me check myself more and contain my aggressive attitude. I didn't want to hear about my attitude like last year. My close friends tell me that my attitude on the court has improved and off the court as well.”
With the May 2 graduation day approaching quickly, Harris embarks on a new journey, letting go of her veteran title. She plans to take her 3.2 GPA to Temple University for a Master's in either Therapeutic Recreation or Occupational Therapy. A Doctoral in one of these fields is in her future plans as well.
If the WNBA does not come calling right away, Harris vows to keep playing, whether semi-pro or overseas.
“Basketball is my life” Harris said. “I have to make it to support my family. As long as I can take care of them, nothing else matters. I feel like my parents jobs are done taking care of us. It's my turn to take care of them.”
For four years, Haman saw first hand this “life” devoted to excellence on and off the court. He knows that he will not come across many players like Harris.
“Coaching her was a pleasure,” Haman said. “She gave 100 percent on the floor and classroom.”
Looking back at her time at Lincoln, certainly Harris wishes there were more wins and national notoriety. However, the value of her education at Lincoln and the impact that she has made is worth more than any victory or award.
“I will be back to support the girls on and off the court,” said Harris. “It has gone by fast and it still has not hit me that it is really over. I guess once I run across that stage it will.”
