Kaihla Szunko, Shonda Long preparing for potential pro careers; await fate in Monday’s WNBA Draft

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A professional basketball future might be possible for Kaihla Szunko and Shonda Long.

The two seniors led the Central Michigan women’s basketball team to a 20-11 overall record and their production has gotten some notice.

During the first weekend in April, the two former Chippewas competed in a free agent camp for the Women’s National Basketball Association.

“It was pretty cool both Shonda and I got to compete,” Szunko said, “and it was also cool to see some players from the bigger schools there.”

Players from Oregon, Alabama and the University of Connecticut were just a few of the universities that also were on hand at the free agent camp.

When it comes to achieving a professional basketball career, the two have options. It isn’t a WNBA or bust scenario.

There is an opportunity that one, if not, both will be playing overseas in the near future.

“Our two kids were seen by agents who have experience overseas,” said head coach Sue Guevara. “If they aren’t drafted in the WNBA, they can get the experience overseas and get an invite back.”

Szunko and Long were both productive during their senior season. Long led the team with 16.5 points per game and set the all-time 3-point record in the process. Szunko was one point per game shy of tying Long, averaging 15.5 points per game and 11.1 rebounds per game. She was the only Chippewa to average double-digit rebounds per game.

Long’s 3-point ability and Szunko’s ability to stretch the floor could be very beneficial to them as they progress forward with their careers.

“Shonda’s ability to shoot the three will help because everybody is looking for people who can score,” Guevara said. “Szunko has the ability to jump and do a lot of the little things.”

Szunko and her 6-foot-1 frame were used to dominate smaller centers in the Mid-American Conference, but she might be used at other positions at the next level.

“It was weird going from the tallest on the team to average height,” Szunko said of her experience at the camp. “When I was there I played the three or the four (spot).”

At the camp, the two competed in front of coaches and agents, some of which were from overseas. Now that it’s over, all they can do is wait and just continue to stay in shape.

“I just need to get in the weight room and stay in good shape,” Szunko said. “Also, get in the gym as much as I can and work on my shot and ball handling skills. There’s always room for improvement.”

In a mock draft conducted by Draftsite.com, neither Long or Szunko were projected to be selected in the draft, but that doesn’t mean they can’t make it one day.

“Whether they land a spot in Europe or the WNBA, it’s awesome,” Guevara said. “A lot of collegiate players have that dream, but it’s tough. It’s very competitive.”

Former Bowling Green star Lauren Prochaska was selected 33rd overall by the Indiana Fever in the mock draft. She was the only MAC player on the board.

The draft will be held today in Bristol, Conn.