1990-91:
MIZZOU: A talented forward/center who should help the Tigers replace the strong play of Sharon Bax. Versatile enough to play both inside and outside the lane.
MOBERLY: Led the Moberly Junior College team to a 51-8 record during her two seasons. Averaged 12.2 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.1 steals as a sophomore. Tabbed a two-time member of the first-team all-tournament and all-regional squads. Shot 70 percent from the charity stripe and 56 percent from the field last season. Named to the honorable mention all-regional team as a freshman after averaging 11.3 points per game. An excellent student who received honors as a Dean's List, President's List and Phi Theta Kappa (Honor Society) during her two-year JUCO career.
HIGH SCHOOL: Became the first freshman to play on Hannibal High's varsity team. Selected to the first-team all-state squad as a junior and senior. Was a three-time all-conference and all-district player. Had career marks of 20.1 points, 9.5 rebounds and .540 FG percentage. Team recorded a 62-23 record during her prep career. Twice tabbed the team MVP. Also lettered in volleyball and track.
PERSONAL: Majoring in engineering. Hobbies are biking, swimming, reading and going to movies. Prep coach - Mike Blase. JUCO coach - Alan Eads. Parents - Larry and Sue Taylor. Born March 11, 1970.
RUTHERFORD ON TAYLOR: "Melisa comes from a great junior college program (Moberly) with a lot of skill and talent. She knows what it takes to win. She can play both inside and out, adding a lot to our offense. Melisa will need to pick up where Sharon Bax left off. We are counting on her to step right in and play for us. She is working hard and adjusting to our system very well. With two years experience behind her, Melisa should help us immediately."