SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Sophomore Lauren Craig made her varsity debut last season as a freshmen and was expected to help Vic Pitton’s Trouabdours in 2013-14. But after averaging 11.1 points and 11.3 rebounds in her first 11 games this season, she is become a major factor now.
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After the first couple games she really gained her confidence in her offense,” said Head Coach Vic Pitton. “She is contributing a double-double almost every game. It is been a welcome surprise that she has developed this quickly. We are very pleased.”

Craig has recorded eight or more rebounds in every game, eclipsing double figures in eight games and reaching 10 or more in seven of the last eight overall. She scored a season-high 22 points in the upset victory over Rocklin in the opening game of the Lodi Christmas Tournament. It was the first of three double-doubles in the tournament and four total on the season.

“Hopefully it continues because she has not reached the top yet,” said Pitton.
Craig has been happy with her performance, including four double-doubles.
“It has gone very well,” said Craig, who recorded 17 points and 17 rebounds in loss to Chandler at the Nike Tournament of Champions. “I have been very happy on varsity. I have been clicking with my team so we can come together and win more games. I feel very comfortable.”

Craig, who scored a personal-best 32 points in the TOC Championship against St. Elizabeth in the 8th grade, has taken advantage of her 6-1 frame and wide wingspan down low. Despite her success, she is the first to admit she has lots of work to do on her game.

“I have to box out and focus on keeping my eye on the ball to better anticipate where it goes,” said Craig among other skills. “I can get better by taking better shots and finishing inside. I need to work on my rebounding, defense and not fouling.”

Craig, who has played the game since the third grade, looks to her father, Ian, for help in her development. He played collegiately at Oregon under Don Monson in the late 80’s.

“He influences me a lot,” said Craig. “He gives me helpful pointers on how to play and we go to the gym together. He shows me drills and moves in the post, helping me with my game.”

The father-daughter duo also watches a lot of basketball – both in person and on television.

“We go to the Kings games a lot and Jesuit games a lot,” said Craig. “I really enjoy watching basketball. We also watch the NBA on TV a lot.”

Craig’s favorite players are Jimmer Fredette and DeMarcus Cousins, watching them intently for tips to add to her game.

“I am always trying to see how I can get better and use them as examples to put into my game,” said Craig.

Craig starts the New Year by joining her teammates for their first home games of the season, hosting Chavez (Jan. 7) and Bella Vista (Jan. 8) this week. The Troubies also travel to Oakmont on Thursday and play the annual Holy Hoops game against Christian Brothers Saturday.