(Editor's note: DCC Athletics release)
GLENDIVE - DCC women’s assistant basketball coach Paige Wright found a powerful presence in signing 6’1 post Aichatou Camara of Elevation Prep Academy in Sarasota, Florida. Camara will join returning All-American post player Ashya Klopfenstein on the Bucs' roster this fall.
"With Aicha on board joining Ashya, that makes our front court much stronger," said DCC head coach Coach Romeo Lagmay, Jr. "Aicha is so athletic. She is versatile enough to actively trap in the full court, face up to the basket from 15 feet and attack, post up down low with useful moves, and be commanding on rebounds. She is a humble person and has a will to be successful. We are thrilled to have her in our program.”
Originally from Dakar, Senegal, Camara will be the sixth player signing out of Elevation Prep from the 2020 class. This past season, the Lady Eagles were 8-12 versus college level programs and 7-3 against high school teams. During the 2018-2019 season, Camara had 10 double doubles averaging 12 points and 10 rebounds, along with 1.2 assists, 1 steal and 2 blocks per game. Aichatou led the team in rebounds per game and field goal percentage shooting (47%), while starting every game. Her highlight game was against TPLS on November 19, 2018 with 15 points, 15 rebounds, 4 assists, and 4 blocks. She also was 2nd in minutes, averaging 37 minutes per game.
"The reason why I chose to go to Dawson Community College is that they showed great interest in me from the beginning," Camara said. "Coach Romeo and Coach Wright gave me a lot of insight to the family atmosphere and community. The fact that Dawson Community College is a family was one of the reasons why I chose to go there. Being away from my family in Senegal for two years makes me realize how much I miss them every day. The fact that Dawson has a reputation for having a support system from the DCC staff, team and community will make it easier as if I’m right at home. At Dawson, I'll be able to meet new friends, family, and be a part of an experience that will impact my life.”
In her senior year, Camara recorded 4 double doubles, averaging 7 points, 7 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.5 blocks. Aichatou had two hard fought performances this season against DME tallying 10 points, 7 rebounds in the first game and 10 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 steals in the second game. She had a high game in rebounding against Daytona State College, with 12 boards against an experienced 18-12 Junior College program. Her Senior night was a highlight for her this season, finishing her high school career with 14 points and 10 rebounds. This season, Aicha played multiple positions helping her team compete.
“Aïcha came in and instantly became like my child from another mother," said Elevation Prep Girl’s Coach Akyah Taylor. "She has been with me since day one, relentless; she triumphs over everything that is thrown her way that is meant to kill her hopes and dreams. Her drive and commitment is unmatched, her “why “ is motivating and she is why I love what I do. No excuses, gets the job done. She grinds on and off the court and I’m grateful to be a part of her journey."
