Keane Signs Albany LOI

Khara Keane (5’8″, PG, St Joseph-College/Advantage Titans) from North York, ON has signed her Letter of Intent to attend the University of Albany in the Fall of 2015.

After some last minute preparation and decision-making, Keane only announced her verbal to the Great Danes of NCAA’s America East Conference, a few days before signing period. But with that now fully behind her, she feels as though a big relief has been lifted from her shoulders.

“It’s an exciting time”, said Keane. “And it kind of seems like a new beginning.”

Keane is a Point Guard that has shown some ability to get to the hoop when the opportunity presents itself. The usually even-keeled Keane has shown diligence on the defensive end by being able to keep up with defenders and shines brightly particularly with her on the ball defense ability.

While being recruited by Albany, Keane felt really drawn in by the Coaching staff, which she felt was the key lure in her knowing that it was the right school for her.

“Coach T (Assistant Coach, Tahnee Balerio), is the Guard Coach and I had ben talking with her through most of my recruitment and she seems like a really good person”, said Keane about the Coach that she will likely spend a large chunk of time with. “I met the Head Coach (Katie Abrahamson-Henderson), and she’s just a really good person. She reminds me of my Aunt. She cares about me as a person, not just a basketball player.”

As well, she was left with a very good impression of the school on her visit as well, which helped seal the deal for her.

“When I actually got to see the gym, it was beautiful. I went to a football game and got to see the school spirit, and it all just seemed so great.”

Although it may not be easy, there is a good opportunity for Keane to make an impression early in her career at Albany. Their two Point Guards are Seniors, so the role that Keane plays will be quite impactful right out of the gate.

“Next year they’re looking for a facilitator, and that’s something I think that I can bring to the team”, she said, looking forward to complimenting the Shooting Guards that are already in place.

With this milestone reached, the St Joseph Bears high school student is not resting on her laurels. She is continuing the work that has helped to open doors for her already, through additional training sessions and culminating her high school career at the Tennessee Turkey Jam in Murfeesboro, TN the weekend of November 29-30.

Along the way, Keane was thankful for a couple of her Coaches that have shaped her game, and provided the platform she needed in order to be able to make this commitment.

“Young Chris (Francis)…because he’s helped me the most”, she said thinking of the first person she wanted to thank. Coach Chris has coached a number of her Advantage Titans rep teams and continues to work on her game on an individual basis. “He has helped me find my game. He has helped me through a lot and is kind of like a mentor.”

“Also Coach (Francesco) Malfitano, my High School Coach…he has helped me get a lot of exposure through my school team.”