Knudson’s dedication leads her to USD

Glory, tradition and success are the words which have fueled McKayla Knudson during her time at South Sioux City High School. Now those same three words will drive her to success as a Coyote.

As a young girl, Knudson was not fond of the idea of playing basketball.

“I started in first grade and I absolutely hated it,” Knudson said. “I really wanted to quit.”

Knudson would then take it very seriously when SSC girls head basketball coach and alumni of USD, Kelly Flynn, started to take notice of her.

“I knew when I saw her playing in the youth leagues that she was going to be an excellent player,” Flynn said.

From then on, Knudson worked extremely hard to perfect her playing skills in order to achieve what almost every girl from South Sioux dreams of: to be a part of the dominating SSC Cardinals team.

“I worked so hard by playing as often as I could, calling up my friends and play some pick-up games,” Knudson said.

Flynn even gave Knudson the opportunity to experience the daily routine of the Cardinals as a junior assistant in eighth grade.

When Knudson finally came to the high school level, the state of Nebraska was watching out for her. Knudson broke numerous school and state records throughout her high school career and help lead SSC to the state championship three times.

“Being a part of the team was just amazing,” Knudson said. “It was like being in a family and basketball was our thing. The year we won state was unlike anything else.”

Midway during her senior year, Knudson tore her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), but Knudson was still determined to finish up her senior season.

Knudson had many colleges looking to recruit her, but she knew from former Cardinals basketball players who played at USD, that it would be perfect for her. Knudson also knew head USD women’s coach Ryun Williams from camps she had attended.

“With Ryun as the coach for USD now, that was ultimately the deciding factor for me,” Knudson said.

Flynn is also pleased with Knudson choosing to attend his alma mater.

“I absolutely love USD and think Ryun is a great coach,” Flynn said. “She is going to be great up there.”

Now, after surgery and therapy, Knudson is looking forward to finally compete as a Coyote.

“My knee is gettng stronger every day, which is making me more excited for next year,” Knudson said. “I can’t wait to play basketball again, meet new friends, and experience all that college offers.”

Reach reporter Mike Dailey at Michael.Dailey @usd.edu.

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