Maria Gakdeng

Maria Gakdeng has made a significant impact in the NCAA Women's Basketball (NCAAWB) as a formidable forward-center for the North Carolina Tar Heels. Born in Lanham, Maryland, Gakdeng has grown into a key player for the Tar Heels, showcasing her skills and dedication on the court. Standing tall at 75 inches, her presence is felt both offensively and defensively, making her a player to watch. Throughout her senior (SR) year in the 2024 season, Gakdeng demonstrated remarkable performance by participating in 30 regular-season games, where she started in all of them, reflecting her importance to the team. Her stats are a testament to her versatility and skill. Gakdeng scored a total of 338 points, averaging 11.3 points per game, which highlights her scoring ability. Additionally, her rebounding skills are impressive, with a total of 231 rebounds, averaging 7.7 per game, which includes both offensive and defensive rebounds. Gakdeng's defensive skills are notable as well, amassing 35 blocks with an average of 1.17 blocks per game, showcasing her ability to protect the rim. Furthermore, her efficiency on the court is reflected in her shooting percentages, with a field goal percentage of 59.7% and a true shooting percentage of 62.2%, underscoring her effectiveness in scoring. Beyond scoring and rebounding, Gakdeng also contributed in other areas, recording 26 assists and 24 steals throughout the season, demonstrating her well-rounded game. Despite the challenges, including turnovers and personal fouls, she has shown resilience and an ability to maintain high performance, which is crucial for her team's success. Maria Gakdeng's journey in the NCAAWB with the North Carolina Tar Heels is marked by her significant contributions on the court, with her scoring, rebounding, and defensive skills making her a standout player. Her dedication and performance have not only contributed to her team's efforts but have also set her apart as a player with a promising career in basketball.