TCU women’s basketball stalwart quietly getting job done

Over the past two years, TCU senior guard Natalie Ventress has stood out on the court.

The bright red hair she sported through her sophomore and junior seasons made her one of the most recognizable and memorable players.

But that streak of individuality, inspired by Rihanna, one of Ventress’ favorite recording artists, is a stark contrast to who she is within the program.

Ventress leads by example, averaging 10 points a game and sitting second on the team in 3-point percentage at .379. Her 1,333 career points rank sixth in program history.

“I honestly don’t think about stats that much,” Ventress said, as TCU (14-9, 6-6 Big 12) prepares for Saturday’s game at Oklahoma (15-8, 9-3). “I’m just out there playing so we can win. That’s all I really want to do is win.”

It’s one of the many reasons Ventress fits perfectly into the system of new coach Raegan Pebley.

Ventress averaged 13.4 points per game as a freshman but the next year saw the majority of TCU’s offense run through newcomer Zahna Medley.

Now, with Pebley’s up-tempo approach, Ventress has embraced a system that allows multiple players to share the offensive spotlight.

That being said, Pebley believes her system suits Ventress’ scoring touch, allowing for more open shots.

“She just really wanted to play up-tempo basketball,” Pebley said. “Watching her on film, before I came here, I felt like she was someone that really had that ability and was going to fit well into our system.”

Ventress, who played at North Crowley High School, made a name for herself on 3-point shooting in high school, when she was ranked 91st nationally by ESPN/HoopGurlz and was the Star-Telegram’s Player of the Year her senior year.

What doesn’t register on the score sheet is her defensive ability to deny players from receiving passes, Pebley said.

One might say Ventress’ confidence as a two-way player makes her look like a different player on the court this season.

Or it might be the green streak in her hair that replaced the bright red.

No matter what the color, that individuality represents the essence of what Ventress has brought to the program over the last four years, Pebley said.

“She’s bold,” Pebley said. “She’s not afraid. She’s willing to put herself out there, and I really think all of our seniors have been leaders that have not been afraid to be challenged and also say what needs to be said. Natalie is definitely one of those as well.”

This story was originally published February 13, 2015 at 3:56 PM with the headline "TCU women’s basketball stalwart quietly getting job done."