General of the Week: Andy Smithey, ’20

Andy Smithey, a junior forward and captain on the Washington and Lee women’s basketball team averaged 17 points per game the last week on January, including a 19-point game that led the Generals to victory over Shenandoah. Smithey has averaged more than six rebounds per game this season, helping lead her team to 14 wins this season, including 10 in the ODAC. The Ring-tum Phi sat down with Smithey to talk about life on and off the court.

Andy Smithey, 20. Photo courtesy of W&L Sports Info.

Andy Smithey, ’20. Photo courtesy of W&L Sports Info.

Kathryn Young

Ring-tum Phi: Why did you start playing basketball?

Andy Smithey, ‘20: I started playing basketball purely for fun in middle school and really enjoyed the fast-paced nature of the game and the exciting atmosphere that goes along with it. I chose to play more seriously in high school on my school’s team and on a travel team which gave me the opportunity to improve my skills and have fun competing with and against very talented players.

Phi: How did you feel after your 19 points in the win over Shenandoah?

Smithey: I am very happy with the win our team secured and I honestly was more happy with my nine rebounds than my points! Rebounding is something our team has struggled with this season and I was excited to have been able to step up and use my athletic ability to get the boards our team needed.

Phi: Why did you choose Washington & Lee to continue your basketball career?

Smithey: I chose Washington and Lee because I loved the school and playing basketball was an additional bonus that I was lucky enough to have as an option. When I came on my official visit, I had so much fun with the team and could see myself having a great time with the team on and off the court.

Phi: What is your favorite part of being a Division III athlete?

Smithey: My favorite part of being a D3 athlete is being able to balance the sport I love and get involved on campus in other ways. I enjoy competing at a high level and improving every day, whether it is in the weight room or on the court. At the same time, I am also able to prioritize my school work and spend time with friends outside of basketball.

Phi: Do you have any game-day rituals? If so, what are they?

Smithey: I do not have any game day rituals because I do not want to think that my ability on the court comes from a set of pregame actions I do. However, I try to be mentally focused when it’s game time and really put aside all other thoughts I might have that are unrelated to basketball.

Phi: What is your favorite basketball memory?

Smithey: Scoring my 1000th point in high school was very rewarding and a great moment to share with my teammates, coaches, family and friends. It was a very happy moment for me.

Phi: Do you have any personal goals moving forward in the season?

Smithey: On a technical note, I want to continue to rebound as much as I can and continue to have a good shot selection. Mentally, I hope to maintain the confidence I have in myself and my teammates and work hard to do what I am capable of, one game at a time.

Phi: What are your favorite things to do off the court?

Smithey: I really enjoy hanging out with my friends and resting whenever I can. I enjoy being around fun people, laughing, and having a good time so that would probably be my favorite way to spend my time.