Sports

Hart Shooting for Eagan High School Scoring Record

The Eagan High School senior is 19 points away from breaking the school's current scoring record.

Jess Hart scored her 1,000th point last year on a free throw against Apple Valley. But now the senior and girls basketball star is aiming at an even higher number. 

1,294 points, to be exact.

That number is one point higher than the standing scoring record for the Eagan High School girls basketball team, according to Head Coach Liz Carpentier. The current record, 1,293 points, was set in the 2006-2007 season by Adrea Holler. Hart is only 19 points away from setting a new record, and Carpentier hopes she'll break it during the Wildcats' game against Rosemount on Friday evening.

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Inspired by her father and three older brothers, all of whom were avid basketball players, Hart began playing basketball when she was a toddler.

"I was always around basketball, and I just kind of grew up with it," Hart said. "It's like a getaway for me. Whenever I’m stressed about school or things like that, it gets my mind off things."

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This year, Hart has been averaging 16.5 points a game, although she's suffering from a recent scoring slump, Carpentier said. Her physical strength, ability to read the game and the senior's impeccable work ethic set Hart apart on the court, according to Carpentier.

But Hart's contributions to the girls basketball team this year have gone beyond her scoring tally, number of rebounds or on-court statistics, Carpentier and teammate Lindsey Micheletti believe.

"Her humor is really dry, so it makes everyone feel better," said Micheletti whose friendship with Hart dates back to when they were middle school students. "She keeps the energy up, and if you do something good, she'll make sure to give you a high five."

Hart's own optimism and ability to bolster the team's energy have been important this year, as the Wildcats struggled with a string of tough opponents and a 3-11 overall record.

"Even though our record has been tough, I think our team will turn it around at the the end, and I think we can get to the section championship game," Hart said. “You either can let [our record] get to you and give up, or you can try and turn it around and make the most of it."

Carpentier characterized the 2011-2012 season as a "rebuilding year," but said the team just needs a breakout game to get the momentum started.

"I think there’s a lot of energy on the team; we are athletic and we do have kids that work hard and give effort, but we have to put all that together," Carpentier said.

But even if the Wildcats' fortunes don't come around, it isn't the end of the road for Hart. Last fall, the senior signed on to play Division I basketball with South Dakota State University.

Correction: This article was changed to correct an inaccuracy. The Eagan High School girls basketball team's current scoring record is 1,293 points. Hart needs to score 1,294 points to break it.


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