Nov. 8, 2000

Columbia, Mo.-The University of Missouri women's basketball team announces the early signing of Lauren Podratz, a 5-11 guard from Maple Grove, Minn.

Podratz plays for Osseo High School (Minn.) where she led her team to the 1999-2000 Minnesota 4A state title. She was named all-state, all-conference and all-tournament as a junior last season. Podratz averages 11 points per game and shoots 43 percent from the field. She also shoots 42 percent from the 3-point arc and 86 percent from the penalty line. Podratz averages three rebounds, seven assists and four steals per game.

"Lauren is a great addition to our program," MU Head Coach Cindy Stein says. "She is a tremendous passer and scorer and her athleticism will help to enhance our style of play."