Coach J.J. Riehl has clearly impacted the recent success of the women’s basketball program, yet she has had some help from senior guard and captain Dawnielle Kiel. The 5’7 guard out of Houston, Texas leads the team in scoring, averaging 15 points per game.

Kiel helped lift the Lady Hilltoppers to their first conference win this season, scoring 21 points against UA Fort Smith. When asked what it is about Kiel that makes her so significant on the court, Coach J.J Riehl had this to say; “It’s more than her averaging 15 points per game. It’s her presence; her will and desire to win and I think these things are just as important as the things you see in the statistical column.” Coach Riehl added, “She’s a huge part of why we’ve been successful.” Given her impact and significant ability to perform, it is easy to assume Kiel has been playing basketball her entire life.

Surprisingly, this is not the case. “I started playing basketball in sixth grade. Pretty late!” said Kiel. What motivated her to pick up this sport? Kiel explained, “My brother is kind of my role model, and he played basketball for Texas State. I used to train with him all of the time and he was really hard on me and made me run a lot!” Laughing, Kiel said, “I used to hate him but it has definitely helped me in my career.”

Kiel’s career did not begin at St. Edward’s, as she originally attended Texas State. “I played there [at Texas State] for two years, and then I transferred. We got a new coach so I transferred here.” It’s safe to say that all of us here at Hilltopper Nation are more than satisfied with Kiel’s decision to transfer. After what can be considered an impressive first season with the Hilltoppers averaging just below 9 points per game, Kiel has erupted in her senior season earning her the title of both leading scorer and captain. On the new responsibilities Kiel faces as captain, she confidently stated, “I feel like I have to be a role model, especially on the court. Never taking a day off and keeping my team pumped up even when I’m having a bad day.” Despite her tremendous efforts as an individual, Kiel is a very humble player. She admired her team and coach for their hard work saying, “Our coach, J.J, has really turned the program around. Our dedication has helped. The team is always in the gym shooting and putting in extra time.”

While Kiel is a serious athlete, she also is a student who enjoys the college life.

Q: What is your favorite type of food?

A: “Wing Stop; definitely Wing Stop. As for pre-game meals, Jason’s Deli or smoothies. I love smoothies.”

Q: What do you when you’re not playing basketball?

A:I definitely go out and have fun. I try to balance it out. I think you have to take breaks sometimes. When we lose, I’m usually in my apartment probably beating myself up.

Q: Who’s your favorite pro athlete?

A: Dwayne Wade. He’s number 3 and I’m number 3. I like the way he plays.

Upon graduation, Kiel plans to continue her basketball career overseas in Australia. However, her mission at St. Edward’s is far from finished. “I want a ring. It’s my senior year and I definitely want a ring” said Kiel. With a 9-5 overall record and undefeated in conference, there is nothing stopping Kiel and the 2012-2013 Lady Hilltoppers from reaching the championship and bringing the hardware home to Hilltopper Nation.