April 1, 2016
By David Dawson
Vanderbilt signee Chassity “LeaLea” Carter is still months away from beginning her college career. But this week, she got a taste of what it feels like to play at that level.
Taking the floor at the United Center in Chicago on Wednesday night for the McDonald’s All-American game, Carter — a standout from Dickson County High — helped the West squad post a 97-88 overtime victory over the East team in the annual contest that features the best prep players in the nation.
Carter finished with eight points, four rebounds and one assist while logging 19 minutes of playing time. For full box score, click HERE.
“Being in that environment, I felt like a college player,” said Carter. “The level of competition was just through the roof and the game was so intense.”
In addition to the game itself, Carter participated in numerous other activities and festivities related to the All-American experience, including visiting the Ronald McDonald House.
For USA Today photos of the players’ visit, click HERE.
Other events during the week included a welcome/orientation gathering, the 29th annual Powerade Jam Fest and a Media Day event.
“It was a fantastic trip,” said Carter. “I really enjoyed everything about it.”
Carter said that visiting the Ronald McDonald House — which provide support programs and housing for the families of hospitalized children — created life-long memories.
“The best part of the whole trip was going to see the children,” said Carter. “That was just amazing.”
Carter said the entire All-American experience was more than she could have ever asked.
“The staff is so organized and so loving,” she said. “They really take care of the players, and make sure you enjoy being there.”
In regard to the game, Carter said it felt like a preview of the next stage of her career.
“When you’re competing against the best players in the nation, it exposes your weakness,” she said. “And I have never really played in a game where the post players were as big as some of these girls. So that was a good learning experience.
“As a whole, these girls were very competitive people, and I think it was great to be playing against those type players,” she said. “It was great prep for college.”
MORE ON CARTER
After the game, ESPN’s Dan Olsen evaluated each player. Here is what he said about Carter:
Chassity Carter: Explosive, athletic and fun to watch, Vanderbilt is getting an exciting prospect in Carter. She contributed eight points and four rebounds at McDonald’s (game).
For all of Olson’s evaluations, click HERE.