Senior forward Aleah Grundahl has been a major factor for the success of the Warhawks women’s basketball team throughout her four years with the program. Grundahl has started all four years and will be returning for her fifth season next year, due to a year of COVID-19 eligibility. 

Grundahl has surpassed the 1000 point mark in her time at Whitewater and currently stands at sixth in program history for career points, but is on pace to set the all time record. The Warhawks star forward also played an important role in the team’s NCAA Tournament run that led them to the National Championship game last season, and this year she is hoping to help them win it all.

Q: When did you start playing basketball and what has helped you fall in love and stay in love with the game?

A: My family is super active. My parents both coach high school sports so that aspect of my life has always kept me understanding the value of exercise and fitness. Also, I am the second of four siblings so the competitiveness of having a lot of people in the house definitely brought out a love for sports. Growing up we were always in the gym and always around sports. Basketball was the sport that really stuck out and the one I have obviously dedicated the most time to. 

Q: What is the accomplishment you are most proud of?

A: Going to the National Championship game last year was absolutely unbelievable. They say it is a once in a lifetime experience but we obviously want to get back there this year and win. The buzzer beater shots and all the close games to get through to the Elite Eight and the Final Four was definitely something I am never going to forget.

Q: What goals do you still have for your basketball career?

A: Getting back to the National Championship. We have a lot of returners and a lot of other players that can get us towards that spot and taking my fifth year is going to be really special since I have that opportunity to play another year of basketball. I really just want to leave a positive impact on all the players, coaches and the program overall before my time is up.

Q: Will you continue to pursue basketball after you finish your career at Whitewater?

A: It is funny you say that because I have gotten a couple of things this week about playing overseas so the opportunities are there, but right now I am planning on stepping away from basketball after I take my fifth year at Whitewater.

Q: What makes Warhawk Women’s basketball such a special and unique program?

A: One-hundred percent the coaches. They put their time and effort into this program, and they care about everyone which embodies what we always say about the family dynamic. They would do anything for us on and off the court. I would also say the players and coaches before our time, like each year is a new special team and that carries on the tradition. We are really driven by making the alumni proud and playing in front of some of those incredible women on alumni day.

Grundahl and the Warhawks currently stand in second place in the WIAC conference, just one game behind the UW-Eau Claire Blugolds. With five games of conference play left this season, the door is wide open for Whitewater to make a run down the stretch and take another shot at bringing home the program’s first ever National Championship.