Best K-State Athlete

Nicole Ohlde grew up in cozy Clay Center, Kansas, about halfway between Lawrence and Manhattan. When it came time to pick what college she would attend and play basketball, her heart proved to be purple. "Nicole Ohlde truly represents all that is the best in and about the state of Kansas," says Deb Patterson, K-State's head coach. "She is an incredible athlete and basketball talent and an even better person." The 6-foot-4-inch center was chosen All Big 12 as a sophomore, was a four-time All-Academic selection and started as a member of the gold-medal-winning 2002 USA Basketball World Championship for Young Women Qualifying Team this summer. "Nicole's personal character, her work ethic, her values and total commitment to excellence epitomize everything that is good in intercollegiate athletics," says Patterson.