Ali Saunders, a junior guard for the University of Southern Indiana (USI), has rapidly become an indispensable asset to the Screaming Eagles. Her journey from North Harrison High School to Valparaiso University and finally to USI showcases resilience, adaptability, and unwavering dedication to her craft. As the Eagles continue their undefeated streak in Ohio Valley Conference play, Saunders' contributions are pivotal in maintaining this momentum.

Elevating Team Performance with Unmatched Tenacity and Skill

The Path to Stability and Success

Saunders’ basketball odyssey began at North Harrison High School, where she excelled as a multisport athlete. Despite facing three different basketball coaches during her tenure, Saunders emerged as a standout player, achieving the 1,000-point milestone in basketball and leading the soccer team to an IHSAA sectional championship in 2019. The instability she experienced in high school prepared her for the challenges ahead.In January 2022, Saunders made the bold decision to graduate early and join Valparaiso University. Her freshman year was marked by impressive performances, averaging 10.7 points and 2.7 assists per game. She earned Missouri Valley Conference All-Freshman honors, validating her potential. However, seeking a fresh start and greater stability, Saunders transferred to USI, where she became a cornerstone of the team’s success.

Achieving New Heights at USI

At USI, Saunders quickly adapted to her new environment, contributing significantly to the team’s achievements. Last winter, she played a critical role in securing the Ohio Valley Conference titles, averaging 7.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. Her efforts did not go unnoticed, as she earned All-OVC Newcomer honors.This season, Saunders has set career highs in points (12.4), rebounds (4.4), and assists (4.0) per game. Her defensive prowess is equally commendable, with 2.6 steals per contest, ranking third in the OVC. Saunders has scored double digits nine times this season and has started 32 consecutive games, establishing herself as one of the most reliable players on the roster.

Mental Toughness and Leadership

The 12 games Saunders played as a senior at North Harrison were instrumental in preparing her for collegiate basketball. Leading the Cougars in points (20.4), assists (4.6), and steals (3.4) per game, she honed her leadership skills under pressure. The experience of carrying the team’s weight taught her mental resilience, which proved invaluable during her freshman year at Valparaiso.Saunders redshirted her first year at Valpo, allowing her to acclimate to college life without losing eligibility. This strategic move gave her a head start, enabling her to practice and travel with the team. “It was crucial for me to get that college feel,” Saunders explained. “Being thrown into the mix so early helped me grow both as a player and a person.”

Culture and Leadership at USI

When choosing USI, Saunders was drawn not only by its proximity to her hometown of DePauw but also by the team’s culture and leadership. The honesty and transparency of Coach Rick Stein and his staff resonated with her. “They were brutally honest, which is exactly what I needed,” she said. “I knew what I was getting into, and it felt like the right fit.”Stein praised Saunders for her consistent play on both ends of the court. “When you talk about reliability and versatility, Ali Saunders comes to mind immediately,” he remarked. “Her ability to defend and create scoring opportunities makes her an invaluable asset to our team.”

Looking Ahead: Elevating the Team

As the Eagles remain undefeated in OVC play, the team embraces the target on their back as a sign of respect. Saunders believes this mindset fosters growth and improvement. “We either walk out of practice worse or better; there’s no staying the same,” she emphasized. “This mentality pushes everyone to step up, raising the overall level of the team.”Saunders’ impact extends beyond her statistics. Her leadership and work ethic inspire her teammates, setting a standard of excellence. With high expectations for the future, the Eagles are confident that Saunders will continue to elevate the team’s performance.