Melinda Sparkman

Year:
Senior
Hometown:
Scottsburg, IN
Position:
F
Height:
5-10

SENIOR YEAR (1982-1983)
If the term "utility player" were used in basketball rather than baseball, Melinda Sparkman would certainly one of the best. A fundamentally sound and intelligent player, Sparky, can work from anywhere on the floor. With fine power moves and a nice outside touch, she has seen action in the post and on the wing for the past two years. Alternating between those spots can be tough and Sparkman did not really show her true colors until February of last season. Then she made significant contributions in crucial performances at the Big Ten Tournament. She started the Michigan game primarily for defensive purposes, yet hit eight of eight free throws on the way to a 12-point night. She also managed to haul in nine rebounds. Again Sparkman played great defense the next day against Illinois and great offense too, with a six for seven field goal accuracy. One of five seniors on the squad, Sparkman was a co-captain last year and once her contributions in leadership department will be counted upon. Sparky is a three point plus student in the classroom.

JUNIOR YEAR (1981-1982)
Team co-captain with Rachelle Bostic...A steady player with a consistent baseline shot...Fine power moves...Was the team's "sixth player" last year...should see considerable action again this year...An excellent passer who can get the ball inside...Also a strong rebounder...Can post effectively or play on the wing...Makes few mistakes...Appears a little faster this year...A hard worker and smart defensive player...Will contribute leadership and maturity to the cause of the Cream and Crimson.

SOPHOMORE YEAR (1980-1981)
Coaches expect Sparkman's steady play and consistent shot from the baseline to prove quite valuable to the Hoosiers in this new season. Also an asset is the great physical strength which allows her aggressive movement to the boards.

FRESHMAN YEAR (1979-1980)
Sparkman's freshman season afforded her much collegiate playing time, and this player used it well. She shot 56% from the field with 9.5 ppg, posted a 75% average for the Hoosiers from the foul line, and earned a spot on the '79-80 Indiana Invitational All-Tourney team.

PREP
Under the eye of Donna Cheatum, Melinda Sparkman piled up 1131 points during a high school career at Scottsburg and took her team to the State Semi-Finals with a 21.5 ppg plus 13.7 rebounds per game. An astute student of basketball, she also transferred her learning ability to the classroom and belonged to the National Honor Society.