Getting to know...Louisiana State Guard Allison Hightower

For Louisiana State�s Allison Hightower, a career in the WNBA would be a dream come true. The Dallas, Texas native was exposed to the league at an early age, thanks to Houston-based grandparents who made a habit of taking her to Comets games.

�I was able to go watch those games when I was younger and see great players, a great fan base and it really motivated me and got me excited about women playing professionally,� Hightower said in a recent conference call with WNBA.com. �I thought of myself maybe being able to play in the WNBA, and now that I am able to have that opportunity, I am just blessed and it�s a great feeling.�

That opportunity will present itself in full at the 14th annual WNBA Draft, scheduled for Thursday, April 8th at the NBA Entertainment studios in Secaucus, New Jersey.

When it comes to player comparisons, Hightower doesn't shy away from admitting her model player, as she was quick to praise Phoenix Mercury guard/forward and reigning WNBA MVP Diana Taurasi. "I love everything about her game.�

There's a healthy buzz surrounding the LSU guard as days tick down to the draft. Her defense remains a focal point for many, but offensive talent is not far behind. In a call with WNBA.com, Los Angeles Sparks head coach Jennifer Gillom praised Hightower�s two-way skill set. �I think Allison Hightower is probably one of the best guard defenders that�s out there,� admitted Gillom. �She�s a very versatile player, a great three-point shooter, has a nice mid-range jumper, great penetrater and you get a player of her caliber that plays well on both ends of the court.�

Since Duke bumped LSU from the SEC Tournament on March 22, Hightower has remained focused on off-season conditioning. �I�ve been working on my strength, just trying to maintain in the weight room,� Hightower said. �I�m also working on my shooting and ball handling.�

Exciting as the draft may be, Hightower is hoping to keep her nerves in check. �As the draft approaches I get more and more nervous just because I am very excited about this opportunity,� said Hightower.

For the lifelong WNBA fan, her dream will soon be a reality.

Allison Hightower�s Top 10

1. What are your hobbies or primary interests outside of basketball?

I love to go bowling and skating

2. How would others describe you?

They would most definitely describe me as outgoing, very silly, and someone who likes to have a good time

3. How would you describe yourself?

I would describe myself as silly, goofy, caring, and someone who always likes to make people laugh

4. What is your favorite food?

I really don�t have one because I love food, but for right now I�m going to say juicy steak and king crab legs

5. What is your favorite color?

Don�t really have one, but I wear a lot of red and I have a lot of purple

6. What is your favorite book?

�Talent is Never Enough,� by John C. Maxwell

7. What is your favorite movie?

Law Abiding Citizen

8. What is your favorite television show?

Everybody Hates Chris

9. What is your favorite karaoke song?

�No Scrubs� by TLC

10. What magazines do you read?

Essence, Ebony, Slam, People