Nov. 14, 2008

CULLOWHEE, N.C. - Western Carolina Head Women's Basketball Coach Kellie Harper announced the signing of three players for next season. Caroline Laughter (Tabernacle Christian School/Hickory, N.C.), Kelsey Evans (Wakefield/Raleigh, N.C.) and Richelle Price (Atlee/Mechanicsville, Va.) have signed National Letters of Intent to play for the Lady Catamounts in 2009-10.

"These players fit the Lady Catamount mold of good character kids who excel on and off the court," Harper said. "These players were instrumental in their high school team's high achievements last season."

Laughter is a 5-9 guard who earned NACA National Player of the Year and Division IV Most Outstanding Player of the Year accolades. She was voted to the NCCSA All-State team. As a junior, Laughter averaged 19.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, 7.3 assists and 6.3 steals per game and helped lead her club to a record of 23-3 and a 2A State Championship and was also NACA Division IV National Champions. She has also scored 1,432 in her three-years.

"Caroline is an intelligent basketball player," Harper said. "She is unselfish and is always looking to get her teammates involved."

Evans is a 6-2 forward who was recently nominated for the McDonald's High School All-America Team and as a junior was named to the All-Tournament Team and First Team All-Conference. She averaged 12 points and nine rebounds her junior campaign and helped Wakefield to an undefeated season in conference and an overall record of 30-1 in 2007-08 season.

"Kelsey is a feisty post player who works very hard," Harper said. "With good size she can score around the basket or show some range."

Price is a 6-1 forward who was named the Capitol District Player of the Year, First Team All-Region, Second Team All-State and captured her third straight first-team all-district selection. As a junior at Atlee, she went over the 1,000 point plateau and has 1,032 points entering her senior year. Last season Price 14.3 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.8 steals per game.

"Richelle has great presence inside," Harper said. "She is versatile with the ability to knock down 3's as well as being physical in the paint."

"This signing class is strong academically and will be leaders among their peers at Western Carolina University," Harper added. "All three young ladies are excited to be joining our family, which is important to our staff and current players."

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