FSU women’s basketball: Sara Bejedi and value to the program
By Nick Andre
Fifth-year senior Sara Bejedi is making the most of her final season at Florida State. On this final ride, she understands that her team has the potential to blossom as one of the best teams in the country. As the veteran leader of the Seminoles, Bejedi continues to make an impact both on and off the court.
The game of basketball comes down to who wants to win. Who is willing to make the hustle plays to have the edge over their opponent? That’s the energy that Sara Bejedi has. She plays with heart, and tenacity, and wants to set the tone for the rest of her team.
When her number is called upon, Bejedi can light up the floor offensively. Her bread and butter is to finish at the basket with high-percentage shots. Bejedi is great at attacking driving lanes and getting into the teeth of the defense. As well as attacking, she also has deep range as she can knock down three-point shots as well. Bejedi’s goal is to keep defenders on their heels. Playing next to great scorers like Ta’Niya Latson and O’Mariah Gordon, she takes the pressure off the two by showing her value on offense.
While Bejedi is a good scorer, she thrives on the defensive end. It’s a challenge every game as she looks to slow down the opposing team’s best perimeter threat. As soon as the opposing team inbounds the ball, Bejedi wreaks havoc from the jump. She picks up her defender full court and uses her physicality and quickness to slow down her opponent. Being annoyed by Bejedi the entire game takes players out of rhythm. Her energy on defense continues to make the game easier for her team.
Through this early season, Bejedi continues to be a jack of all trades for Florida State. She’s averaging 9.8 points along with three rebounds and a career-high two steals. She has three games this season where she has scored 10+ points and secured three-plus steals. Two of those three games resulted in wins. It’s safe to say that her energy has been contagious in the locker room. When she plays with energy, the rest of the team follows.
Bejedi is a prime example of a player who has grown. After transferring from Arizona State, Bejedi knew she found a home at Florida State. In her four years as a Seminole, Bejedi has grown more disciplined and she improved in every aspect of her game. It may have been tough in the beginning as Bejedi played four games her first season. However, she continued to blossom as an important piece on the team. “She has grown,” Florida State Head Coach Brooke Wyckoff stated. “She’s somebody who, when given feedback, criticism, or hard coaching says ‘Ok, I hear you. I’m going to do it.’”
As the season continues, Sara Bejedi will continue to be the glue of the Seminoles. She keeps the team on track and continues to be a leader on and off the court. Many fifth-year seniors have their eyes on the WNBA and other professional leagues. However, Bejedi understands that her team has an ultimate goal. Not only do they want to win the ACC title but a National Championship as well.