Interview by Steph Stanislao
Photo by J. Alan Paul Photography
DeGagne has been an electric force for the NDSU Women’s Basketball Program since coming to Fargo from Canada back in 2009. Last season, DeGagne averaged 10.2 points and 4.7 rebounds per game. This senior is a leader on and off the court. DeGagne explains why she chose NDSU, why she gives refs a break and how she got her nickname.
As a player you obviously love basketball, any chances that you might become a coach some day?
Yeah, for sure. I’ve always had an interest in basketball and anything related to sports. Working with kids is part of one of my majors—human development and family science, so I think that’d be great. I don’t really know what I want to do yet, but it’s always good to keep my options open.
Referee’s oftentimes get a bad wrap. But your dad is a referee and has officiated several high profile sporting events, how has that affected the way you see the game?
Well, I’m not really allowed to say much about the reffing (laughs), because my dad usually cheers for the referees. I understand. It’s good to get a different perspective and to see where they’re coming from. I’ve reffed in high school for girls and guys basketball, so I know both ends of it. I just kind of always keep that in mind.
Being from Canada, how did you know that NDSU was the right fit for you?
I didn’t really look at playing basketball in the states. I just kind of randomly came to their camp after my grade 11 year, and honestly it just felt right. The people were great and the coaches were great. I thought about it a bit, and then decided that that would be the best fit for me.
What is the best thing about waking up on game day?
The thrill and the excitement to get to play again. Just to play Bison basketball— it’s great tradition, it’s great to be with the team. It’s awesome to get to step out onto the court with my teammates and have our fans support us. It’s really exciting every single game day.
Any pregame jams that you like to listen to?
No, not really. I just listen to any kind of music. I don’t have any specific songs that I listen to. It’s just what I’m feeling for that day. Anything works really.
What is something that fans probably don’t know about you?
I like to go to the hockey rinks and play outdoor hockey. I really love hockey and playing other sports. Those are my big hobbies.
Have you acquired any nicknames during your time in Fargo?
My freshman year, our trainer gave me the nickname “crazy legs.” Cause my legs just kind of go everywhere, and I pretty flexible somehow.
