Meet-A-Bison: Abby Plucker
Written by Rob Detjen Tuesday, 02 February 2010 08:00
Some people think that athletes may have an attitude problem or can be a little stuck-up. With sophomore forward Abby Plucker, people could not be more wrong. I got the pleasure of interviewing Plucker as my first Meet-A-Bison, and right away I could tell you she had her priorities in order.
Family is very important to Plucker. Growing up in Parker, S.D., she looked up to her older brother, a SDSU graduate, who also played basketball. “We’d always practice together, and I liked watching him play,” Plucker said. “He’s just a nice overall person.”
As only a freshman in high school, Plucker helped lead her basketball team, the Parker Pheasants, to third place in the South Dakota State Basketball Tournament.
“It was memorable because I got to start my freshman year, and people didn’t really expect us to be that good.” Plucker graduated from Parker High School as the school’s all-time scorer with 1,596 points and 666 rebounds as well as being nominated for the McDonald’s All-American team.
Aside from competing in high school basketball, Plucker also excelled in volleyball and track. In track she won four state championships and broke numerous relay records. In volleyball Plucker earned all-conference and all-state honors.
To Plucker academics are very important. An aspiring orthodontist, if she’s not on the hardwood, you can usually find her in the library catching up on some homework. “I want to be an orthodontist because a smile helps brings confidence to people.”
Since coming to NDSU, Plucker has been named to three different academic teams, including the Summit League Winter/Spring All-Academic Team for the last two years. “It’s hard to find the proper balance between school, basketball and a social life, but for me, school and basketball come first.”
Plucker had her last season cut short nine games into the season because of a shoulder injury. “Rehab was the hardest part; you have to go from good shape, to bad, and then back to good,” Plucker said. “Also, watching my teammates struggle with only six players.”
Thankfully Plucker was granted a medical hardship giving her an extra year of eligibility. She has since battled back and is currently the Bison’s leading rebounder and fourth on the team in scoring.
As well as being a good cook, Plucker enjoys spending time with her teammates. That time is something that she will always treasure. “I like the traveling, hanging with my teammates. I will always remember the moments with them, not the scores,” Plucker said.
As to what Plucker wants to be remembered for, Plucker said, “I just want to be remembered as a good person; a hard worker who cared about other people, not just basketball. I’d also like to motivate a girl or two from my hometown.” So far Abby, you’re on the right track.
