Breana McDonald is a third-year starter and a primary reason that Chamblee's girls basketball team entered this week's Region 6-AAAA tournament 23-0 and ranked No. 1 by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. The 6-foot junior guard averages 14 points a game and even netted 23 in the Bulldogs' 70-48 victory over Miller Grove.
She spoke to the AJC.
Q: What's an undefeated regular season like?
A: At the beginning of the season, I didn't think this was possible. But as things went on, I figured it could happen like this. I don't think anyone's ever done this at Chamblee. And if it has been done, it's been a while.
Q: How did you develop a love of basketball?
A: My mom wanted me to play when I was 7. I started playing in a church league, and it just took off from there. She used to play with me, and the first couple years I played in the church league, she was my coach.
Q: What's your favorite subject in school?
A: Language arts. I like to read plays and write short stories and essays. It's stuff that comes natural to me. It's more like a hobby, actually.
Q: Did you picture this success on the court?
A: I thought we might win a lot of games, but nothing like this.
Q: How close is this year's team?
A: This is the closest we've been since my freshman year. We go out to eat together, have sleepovers and play [video games] together. We do all kinds of stuff together.
Q: What are your expectations in the state tournament?
A: We expect to win it. We just can't take anyone lightly or expect to beat anybody without trying.
Q: Can Chamblee continue to outscore opponents by 21 points on average?
A: If we play our game and don't let other teams take over, we should be able to. The key has been jumping out early -- beating teams in the first quarter -- and not letting them get the momentum back.
Q: Do you do anything special to prepare for games?
A: I always sit alone for about five minutes to relax and think about the game. It helps me get my head together. I want to get in my zone and focused.
Q: If not basketball, what sport would you be playing?
A: I've never thought about that. I'd probably run track because my mom did at Auburn. I think track runners have the most dedication because they don't depend on anyone else to win. I admire their dedication.
Q: What would you like to improve about your game?
A: My defense and my shot percentage. I think I could go harder on defense.
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