The lone standing senior on the basketball court, Maria Klein or “Mer” as her teammates and coaches call her, not only shows up as a team leader but also as a team player.

Klein has been playing basketball since she could grip onto a ball without it slipping through her hands. From YMCA leagues to AAU teams and tournaments, Maria has developed her basketball and leadership skills.  

“It was so natural for me,” said Klein. “My mom said when I was two years old I would pick up a ball and start dribbling around the house. So, for as long as I’ve known, I’ve always had a ball in my hand. It’s something I’ve always loved to do.”

Klein has hopes of going on to play basketball after high school as she has been narrowing down colleges.

“College basketball has always been my dream and I’ve always dreamt of going DI,” said Klein. “But also, seeing other DI athletes go through it, it seems more like a job than a fun sport to play.”

Klein has set her sights on what she really wants to get from her college experience: Athletics and education.

“It would be cool getting to play in a large arena with the bright lights and brand name apparel, but I want to be able to get a good education wherever I go,” said Klein. “I know that I want to go to a school where I can have fun playing basketball and have success in the classroom.”

Growing up, Klein watched Wahlert basketball star, Charlotte Flynn, ‘16, ball out on the court, hoping one day that would be her.

“Charlotte was actually the first person I met at Wahlert through the open house showcase,” said Klein. “She talked a lot about her love for basketball, and it made me really excited to come to Wahlert and play for the program.”

Maria happens to be the basketball protege, but she also spends her time playing softball in the summer, managing volleyball in the fall and track in the spring.

“I got into managing track and volleyball because of my friends that participate in the sports,” said Klein. “I’ve also had knee problems for a while. I didn’t want to risk anything with basketball, so I got to be involved with the teams without putting my basketball career on the line.”

Maria also has aspirations to become a coach later on.

“Seeing what these sports hold for each individual is a really cool experience,” said Klein. “I also get to see and learn coaching techniques. I would like to become a coach one day so managing has been a good learning experience.”