Lewis nets Murdock, Mead

Lewis University women's basketball coach Lisa Carlsen has announced the signings of four players, including seniors Labrenthia Murdock of Round Lake and Lauren Mead of Wauconda, to national letters of intent.

Lewis, which is located in Romeoville and plays at the NCAA Division II level, has also signed forward Samantha Rinehart of Marion and guard Ty Ali of Rich South.

"I think this recruiting class has the potential to make an immediate impact on our program," Carlsen said. "They are all very good athletes and will add speed as well as size to our roster. Coach (Tracy) Summers has done a tremendous job helping to assemble a very strong class."

Murdock, a 5-foot-9 guard, was named to the Daily Herald all-area team in Lake County after averaging 16.7 points, 5.2 assists and 3.3 steals her junior season. She also earned all-conference accolades for the second straight season while earning honorable mention during her freshman year. She entered her senior season at Round Lake seventh all-time in scoring.

"Labrenthia has the ability to get to the basket, as well as (having) good range from behind the arc," Carlsen said. "She is long and active on the defensive end. Labrenthia is a fiery player and also has the personality to lead. I think she has a chance to be an impact player at this level."

Mead, a 6-1 forward, averaged 15.8 points and 7.6 rebounds per game her junior season. She helped guide her team to the school's first regional championship in 15 years. She is a three-time all-conference, Daily Herald all-area and Wauconda all-tournament selection. Academically she's been a member of the Superior Honor Roll every year.

"Lauren adds some much-needed size at the post position," Carlsen said. "She is a very good athlete, runs the floor well and can be very effective with her back to the basket or facing up. She is a great student and great person and will fit in well here at Lewis."