Russell right at home as Redbird

Russell, a 2008 Rock Falls High School graduate who went to Wisconsin on a basketball scholarship, has established herself as one of the top players in the Missouri Valley Conference at Illinois State. She transferred to ISU after two unhappy, unproductive seasons with the Badgers.

"I just wanted to play," Russell said, "and after pretty much sitting at Wisconsin for two seasons, I was starting to lose some confidence. It's worked out great for me at Illinois State. I guess you could call me a happy transfer."

The 5-foot-8 senior made her mark on the ISU program in 2011-12, after sitting out a season as a transfer. She was the Missouri Valley Conference Newcomer of the Year after averaging 13.1 points and 5.3 rebounds, along with a team-leading 109 assists and 82 steals.

She was an all-conference first-teamer, and earned a spot on the all-defensive team as well. Team honors included co-MVP, Best Defense and Hustle Award. She started all 32 games, and helped the Redbirds to a 19-13 record, including 13-5 in conference.

Russell's role on the team changed a bit heading into the current season. She played point guard a year ago, but head coach Stephanie Glance wanted her to become more of a scoring threat, so she moved over to shooting guard.

Her scoring output, at 13.4 points a game, is similar to a year ago, and is third on the team behind 6-2 post player Janae Smith (15.6 ppg) and 5-10 wing Candace Sykes (14.1 ppg).

"We like to get out and run if possible, and that's where I do a lot of my scoring," Russell said. "We've got a couple of go-to players that we look to in the half-court, but if my number's called, I'm looking to score."

Much like in her high school days as a Rock Falls Rocket, however, it's on the defensive side of the ball Russell shines equally bright. Through 18 games, she has a team-leading 46 steals, with the next-best at 17. She draws the other team's top offensive threat, provided that player isn't a post.