Meet Nashley Gonzalez

Name, Age: Nashley Gonzalez, 17

Class Year: 2011

Sport, Position: Basketball, Shooting Guard

Why’s Nashley Gonzalez the Player of the Week?

She has been one of two senior leaders this year for the girls’ varsity basketball team and has been getting it done offensively all year for the team from both inside and outside the key. Gonzalez has knocked down 15 3-pointers this season and hit a personal high four against Marlborough on Monday night in the team's 9th win of the season. She finished the game with 16 points, including 10 in the second quarter. On Thursday night, Gonzalez had a game-high 19 points and helped propel the Hawks (10-8) to the District Tournament with a 55-18 win over Nipmuc Regional High School.

What college or professional athlete inspires you and why?

My uncle Benjamin was an amazing basketball player. He wasn’t on a school team or anything, just with his friends and at the . He happened to pass away two years ago and ever since then I’ve just been playing basketball for him, in remembrance of him. Growing up he taught me a lot, he would take me to the park and show me the basics of basketball; it really changed my life. I spent a lot of time with him and ever since then I’ve changed because of that. He’s inspired me a lot, but basically I play basketball for him and I believe he’s very proud of what I’m doing.

What is your most memorable experience as an athlete so far?

I’ve been playing basketball since I’ve been in second grade and I don’t really have a most memorable moment, but I guess just playing basketball in general is pretty memorable to me. Making it to the playoffs my sophomore year was pretty memorable because it was the first time in a lot of years we made it, but we lost in the first round. I was very happy and excited to be a part of that team. I believe we had a lot of potential, but losing to Doherty in the first round was tough, but I still think it was a great game. I’ve won free throw contests, I’ve had a lot of success in my basketball career as of today, but that’s the most memorable one that stands out.

What are your plans for the future athletically and academically?

I’m not sure yet, but I know I want to play basketball in college. I’ve applied to Merrimack, Endicott, Springfield and LaSalle. I want to study athletic training. I love sports in general, so something of that type of nature would be my major.