The University of Utah women's basketball program is officially 21 days away from its home exhibition game against Westminster College on Oct. 31. Get to know sophomore #21
Maurane Corbin. The 6-5 forward from Saint-Bruno, Quebec played in all 31 games last season as a true freshman, shooting 52-percent on the year.
Q: How did your interest in basketball begin?
A: I played many sports growing up, and I practiced soccer for 12 years. Everyone was telling me I should play basketball because I was very tall, but I was scared to try a new sport. One day, a coach called me and told me there was a basketball practice for new players. I went to that practice and felt in love with the game right away.
Q: What is your favorite part about playing basketball?
A: Being a member of a team and the family feeling we create are the main reasons I love basketball so much. I love competing at a high level with my best friends. We all have each other's back on and off the court. I love the level of competitiveness during games and the intensity on the court.
Q: What made you choose Utah?
A: I developed a great relationship with the coaches even before meeting them in person. When I came on my official visit, everyone was so welcoming. I had a great connection with the coaches and players. I also felt in love with the campus right away; the facilities are incredible and the mountains all around the campus are beautiful. I also loved the Canadian connection the team has had for many years. Most importantly, I knew Utah was a place where I would develop my basketball skills and become a better player, that we would set high goals for the team and accomplish great things, and that I would also grow as a person. I trusted the coaches and the program. I knew it was the right fit for me and it felt like home as soon as I stepped on campus.
Q: What are some of your favorite things to do outside of basketball?
A: Any outdoor activities. As soon as I have some time off I try to go outside and enjoy Utah's nice weather. I love to go to the pool, hike, walk/run outside, etc.
Q: What is the best piece of advice you've been given?
A: Live everyday like it's your last.
Q: Who is your biggest influence in life on and off the court and why?
A: My parents. They taught me so much in the past 21 years, and I am still learning from them every day. They raised my brothers, sisters and I and transferred us their values. They always encourage us with everything we do and try to help us at the best of their capabilities. Even if they know nothing about basketball, they always support me, come to my games and cheer for me. All they want is for their children to be happy and I am so grateful to be their kid. They showed us what real love is and the importance of having a lovely family.
Q: What do you think are some keys to success when it comes to being a college athlete?
A: You need to be organized. It is not always easy to manage your time between school and sport, but nothing is impossible. You also need to believe in yourself and in your team and to be motivated to put the time in. Most importantly, you need to enjoy your time as a college athlete and to appreciate every second of it.
Q: If you could play and go pro in any other sport, what would it be and why?
A: Track. I always loved running and I think it is very impressive to watch runners.
Q: What are you looking forward to most this season?
A: Just having another opportunity to compete at this high level. The opportunity to get better every day and accomplish big things as a team. Every game day is so exciting and different from each other. I love all of them.
Q: What is your favorite part about being on the basketball team at Utah so far?
A: The friendships I created and all the people I met; Utah is a great community. I also love being part of the team and travel all around the country. One of my favorite memories is our trip to Italy last summer.
Q: Where is your favorite place to eat in Salt Lake City?
A: Cheesecake Factory.
Q: If you could have a super power, what would it be?
A: Teleportation.
Q: Do you have any hidden talents?
A: Not that I know.
Q: What is your favorite movie?
A: Titanic.
Q: What did you want to be growing up?
A: Elementary school teacher.
Q: If you could take three things with you to a desert island, what would they be?
A: Hammock, book and water bottle.
Q: If you could describe yourself in three words, what would they be?
A: Enthusiastic, helpful, organized.
Q: What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?
A: Cookies dough.
Q: If you could time travel, where and when would you go?
A: In the 1970s, to see my parents when they were young. I would love to see how they were and compare myself to them.
Fans can get to know Corbin and the rest of the Utes at
Brunchin' with the Utes on Saturday, Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. Tickets are $10 a person. RSVP to UtahWBB@huntsman.utah.edu.