Student-Athlete of the Month
The Student-Athlete of the Month program recognizes the all-around success of select Hofstra University student-athletes. The key criteria includes excellence in academics, leadership and dedication in athletics, a commitment to community service, and the extent to which they serve as a role model for their peers.
Shante Evans is a senior on the women's basketball from West Chester, PA. Evans closed her career as arguably the greatest to ever suit up for the Pride, finishing her spectacular four years with 2,116 points and 1,348 rebounds. Both totals are program records and the rebounding total is also a Colonial Athletic Association record. When asked what her most memorable athletic experience was, she stated, “My most memorable achievement would have to be getting my jersey retired. Knowing that my number is up in the rafters with all those basketball players before me is truly an honor and a blessing.”
Q: Why did you choose to attend Hofstra University?
EVANS: I choose Hofstra because it was the perfect opportunity for me to get a great education and be able to play Division I basketball. Also, it's close to home so I can go home whenever I want to.
Q: What has it meant to be a member of the Hofstra women's basketball team and to play for your head coach Krista Kilburn-Steveskey?
EVANS: It means a lot to be part of a program such as Hofstra's. I am able to play in one of the top conferences in the nation and compete with other great athletes. In my four years here with the basketball program we have created a winning program, and it's been an honor to be a part of that. Coach K is the type of coach who wants to see you succeed, not only on the court, but off as well. She has helped me elevate my game and put me in a position to get to the next level after college.
Q: How did you make your decision on what major to choose?
EVANS: My favorite subject since elementary school has been history. I just love learning about the past and how we became the country we are today.
Q: What does it take to be a successful student while competing as a Division I student-athlete?
EVANS: Time management is the most important thing to be a successful student-athlete. As an athlete, you have demands on your time for things like practice, lifting, conditioning and other activities. It is our job to find the time to study so we can be successful in the classroom as well.
Q: What is your definition of a leader?
EVANS: A leader is someone you look up to in a group. This person is not selfish and always does what is best for team. When times gets tough, this person will step up and take ownership and put his or her team on their back and lead them.
Q: How has community service involvement positively impacted your development as an individual?
EVANS: It's always good to give back to the community because there are people out there less fortunate then you are. On my team we go serve food to those in need and that gives us the opportunity to interact with them and put a smile on their face. Doing community service helps build character and is something I am going to continue to do.
Q: What kinds of aspirations do you have for playing at the next level, it any?
EVANS: My dream as a kid always was to go play in the WNBA and now I am at the point in my career where I have chance to live out my dream. I will receive my diploma at the end of this semester. My plan for after graduation is to enter the WNBA Draft and go overseas to play professional basketball.
Q: What piece of advice do you have for incoming student-athletes?
EVANS: Four years seems like a long time but it goes by quickly! Enjoy the moments you have with your teammates and coaches. Don't take anything for granted, you were given a great opportunity to play a college sport and get an education.
Q: What has surprised you about Hofstra since arriving on campus?
EVANS: The diversity on campus is unbelievable. I have met people from so many different cultures during my four years at Hofstra.
