Martin signs to play hoops at Pierce College
<p>Sandpoint High School senior Lily Martin has signed a letter of intent to play basketball at Pierce College near Tacoma, Wash. Pictured in the front row, from left, are Mike Martin Jr., Mike Martin Sr., Lily Martin and Francie Street. In the back row, from left, are Chris Chatburn, Shawn Mosqueda and Laura Alamillo. (Photo by ERIC PLUMMER)</p>
SANDPOINT — Featuring a physical game around the basket and a high hoops IQ, Sandpoint senior Lily Martin is happy to be taking her game to the college level, signing a letter of intent to play basketball next season at Pierce College near Tacoma, Washington.
Martin initially went to visit Green River Community College, where former teammate Jordan Speelmon played for the past two seasons, but the facilities and surrounding area of Pierce College were a better fit.
She met the faculty and coaches, and has already started on a shooting workout, honing her skills to compete in the Northwest Athletic Conference.
“It’s pretty surreal, and definitely eye opening. I’ve always dreamed about it, but now that it’s happening, it’s crazy,” described Martin, who received a financial scholarship and plans to study primary education. “You’re there to work, and are accountable for yourself.”
Her former JV coach Chris Chatburn thinks she’ll play the wing and also work in the post.
“She strong underneath,” he described. “She’s got a good around-the-basket game.”
Regional scout Shawn Mosqueda, who helped steer Martin to Pierce College, feels she has the athleticism and smarts to contribute immediately.
“It will be interesting to see how they’ll utilize her at the next level,” said Mosqueda. “She’s a very physical, solid player.”
Martin didn’t put up huge stats in high school, but the Pierce coaches loved what they saw in a one-on-one workout. Mom Francie Street is excited to see her daughter get to continue playing a sport she loves in college.
“What their coach was looking for was not what you find in the stat sheet,” said Francie. “We’re hoping to see some huge improvement in college.”