Zugasti Off to Vanguard

Glendora, CA -- Citrus College sophomore Nicole Zugasti has accepted a scholarship offer from one of the most successful NAIA programs in the country in Vanguard University. Zugasti will suit up for the Lions beginning in the 2013-2014 season.

Zugasti was one of just four players for Citrus who appeared in all 28 games for the Owls during the 2012-2013 campaign. On the season Zugasti averaged 9.8 points and 8.8 rebounds a game, while shooting 43.7% from the floor.

"I enjoyed the environment on Vanguards campus, and I like that it's a small school," Zugasti said. "They're a winning program, and I like the way they play. I feel like I can fit in there."

Over the final month of the season Zugasti terrorized the Owls opponents, recording three straight double-doubles to close out the season. In Western State Conference South Division play Zugasti averaged 11.8 points and 11.9 rebounds a game.

"Here at Citrus, I've been able to develop my skills, and I learned to be someone that my team can count on," Zugasti said. "Before Citrus I never got the opportunity to play that role. [Head Citrus College Women's Basketball] Coach [Tamara] McDonald has pushed me to my highest level on and off the court."

Zugasti will join a Vanguard team that as of this release was 23-3 on the year and fresh off a Golden State Athletic Conference Tournament Championship. The Lions are consistently one of the top programs in the country under Head Coach Russ Davis, who has the second best overall winning percentage in the country among active NAIA coaches.

"As a staff we are excited for Nicole and her choice to attend Vanguard University. They have a long standing tradition of winning and academic excellence. She deserves this opportunity to join such a respectable program," McDonald said. "Coach Davis is an amazing teacher and a demanding coach. I know he will get the absolute best out if her as a player and person."