At a recent Miami Dade College women’s basketball team practice, one voice could be heard above all the others: freshman Rakena “Kiki” Bowers’.
Bowers barked out instructions, clapped her hands, and yelled out “ball” or “watch the screen!”
“I want to become a team leader,” Bowers, a psychology major said. “Even though I’m a freshman there isn’t any reason why [I] shouldn’t step up and take that role.”
Vocal assertiveness is certainly a big part of the 6-foot-2 center’s game, but Bowers feisty nature has also translated to the court.
During the team’s opening season loss to the College of Central Florida, Bowers grabbed 18 rebounds. She followed up that performance with an 11 rebound game versus Sante Fe College.
Bowers, who wants to average at least 10 points and 10 rebounds per game this season for the Lady Sharks, is averaging 11 rebounds and 3.3 points.
She is fast becoming a physical force for the Lady Sharks.
Head Women’s Basketball Coach Susan Summons said it is that “size, physicality and passion for the game” that made her pay attention to Bowers.
Bowers had her breakout during her junior season at Mooresville Senior High School where she averaged seven points and 7.2 rebounds per game. She racked up numerous player of the week honors that year before playing her senior year at Newton-Conover High School.
Summons believes Bowers has the potential to be an All-American and realize her dream of transferring to play for the North Carolina Tar Heels.
Bowers’ teammates believe in her abilities as well.
“She is capable of doing great,” said sophomore guard Kayla Guerrero.
