Early Life and High School Success
Addison O’Grady, a talented and hardworking basketball player, has been making waves in the sports world. Born and raised in Aurora, Colorado, she quickly emerged as one of the most promising young athletes in the country. From her early days at Grandview High School to her collegiate career at the University of Iowa, Addison has consistently demonstrated her skill, dedication, and passion for the game.
During her time at Grandview High School, Addison played a crucial role in her team’s success. Under the guidance of head coach Josh Ulitzky, she helped lead her team to two state championships in her freshman and junior years. Her ability to dominate both offensively and defensively made her a standout player.
High School Achievements
- Junior Year: Averaged 10.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.6 blocks per game.
- Sophomore Year: Contributed 9.9 points, 6.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game.
- Freshman Year: Recorded 7.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 2.3 blocks per game.
Her impressive performances earned her several accolades, including all-state and all-league honors. Additionally, she was a multi-sport athlete, excelling in volleyball and track and field, showcasing her athletic versatility.
Academic Excellence and Community Involvement
Addison O’Grady is not just a talented athlete but also a dedicated student. Maintaining a remarkable 4.52 GPA in high school, she ranked 21st in her graduating class of 706 students. Her academic achievements include being named an AP Scholar with Distinction and an Aurora Scholar, reflecting her commitment to excellence both on and off the court.
Her passion for giving back to the community is another aspect that sets her apart. She has volunteered at Children’s Hospital Colorado, the local VA, and the Ronald McDonald House, demonstrating her dedication to making a positive impact beyond sports.
The Prestigious Freddie Steinmark Award
In August 2021, Addison was honored with the prestigious Freddie Steinmark Award. This award is given annually to Colorado’s top male and female student-athletes who exemplify superior athletic ability, academic prowess, and community leadership. Receiving this honor solidified Addison’s status as a well-rounded role model, excelling in multiple areas of life.
College Career with the Iowa Hawkeyes
Continuing her basketball journey, Addison joined the University of Iowa’s women’s basketball team, where she plays as a forward/center. Standing at 6-foot-4, her presence on the court has been invaluable to the team. Her first few seasons have showcased her potential as a key player for the Hawkeyes.
Notable College Performances
- 2021-22 Season: Played in all 32 games, earning Big Ten Freshman of the Week honors. She recorded her first career double-double against Evansville with 14 points and 12 rebounds.
- 2022-23 Season: Continued her growth, setting a season-high against SELA with six points and five rebounds.
- 2023-24 Season: Scored a season-high 14 points in the NCAA tournament against Holy Cross on March 23, 2024.
Her impressive statistics and contributions to the team have demonstrated her ability to rise to the occasion. Her hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed, as she continues to improve with each season.
Impact on the Iowa Hawkeyes
Addison O’Grady has quickly become an important part of the Hawkeyes’ lineup. Her ability to score, rebound, and defend makes her a versatile player. She has consistently proven to be a valuable asset, helping Iowa maintain its competitive edge in the Big Ten Conference.
One of her most notable performances came on December 29, 2024, when she scored 12 points in Iowa’s 84-63 victory over Purdue. Her efficiency on the court, making 4 of 7 shots and 4 of 6 free throws, was a testament to her growing confidence and skillset.
Strengths and Playing Style
Addison’s playing style is defined by her strong defensive presence, rebounding ability, and inside scoring. She is known for her ability to block shots, create second-chance opportunities, and contribute on both ends of the floor. Her ability to adapt and improve with each game highlights her potential for an even greater role in future seasons.
Her high basketball IQ and work ethic set her apart from many players her age. Coaches and teammates alike have praised her for her commitment to improving her game, both in practice and in competitive matchups.
Personal Life and Inspirations
Addison comes from an athletic family, with her mother, Mary, having played basketball at the University of South Dakota. Growing up in a supportive environment helped shape her love for the game and instilled in her the drive to succeed.
She has a twin sister, Jori, and a younger brother, Jackson, who have been her biggest supporters throughout her journey. Addison is currently majoring in Chemical Engineering, further showcasing her dedication to academic excellence alongside her athletic career.
Future Prospects
With her continued development and commitment to the game, Addison O’Grady has the potential to achieve even greater heights in her basketball career. As she hones her skills, she could become a key player for the Hawkeyes in the coming years and potentially take her talents to the professional level.
Her combination of athleticism, intelligence, and determination makes her a promising prospect for professional basketball opportunities, whether in the WNBA or overseas leagues. If she continues on her current trajectory, she could have a long and successful career in the sport.
Conclusion
Addison O’Grady’s journey is an inspiring story of dedication, hard work, and perseverance. From her high school dominance to her emerging college career, she continues to make an impact in the basketball world. Her ability to balance athletics, academics, and community involvement sets her apart as a true role model.
As she continues her basketball journey with the Iowa Hawkeyes, the future looks incredibly bright for this rising star. Fans, coaches, and teammates alike will be watching closely as she develops into one of the most exciting players to watch in women’s college basketball.
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