Marissa Yernatich, a senior guard, set a new school record when she hit her 152nd 3-pointer on Dec. 8.

Dedication, a passion for basketball and commitment to the MSUM women’s basketball program have helped Marisa Yernatich become a part of history.

Yernatich, a senior from Duluth, Minn., is now the all-time leader in 3-pointers at MSUM. The record was previously held by Kris Wilson with 151 3-pointers. Yernatich set the record on Dec. 8 against NSIC opponent University of Mary.

Knowing the record was close, it carried even more significance in the outcome of the game. With the team trailing, Yernatich hit her 152nd 3-pointer and record breaker that gave MSUM the momentum in the game.

“It’s a great honor…it’s something I’ve worked hard for,” Yernatich said.

Head coach Karla Nelson said, “It got us the momentum we needed. It was a very competitive game and her shot got us back in it.”

Yernatich wasn’t concerned with setting the record at the time she was focused on the game. Proving to be a big boost to the team, junior Morgan Zabel gave the Dragons the shot they needed at the perfect time.

With the team trailing in the final seconds Zabel, put up a three pointer with a last second shot that gave the Dragons the victory.

Yernatich started playing basketball with her father.

She learned from her father how to shoot and practiced with throughout the summers and in school.

“It just came more natural,” said Yernatich of shooting the three point shot.

Looking back on her career Yernatich said the memories with her teammates on the trips they’ve taken and the bonding experiences they’ve had will be her greatest moments for her.

Nelson credits Yernatich’s commitment, work in the offseason and dedication to becoming a part of MSUM history.

“She is a consistent threat from the arch which opens up our post players,” Nelson said of Yernatich and her ability to hit a key 3- pointer at anytime during the game.

“Both on and off the court she has been great…we’ve been very fortunate,” Nelson said of Yernatich and the impact she has made on the MSUM women’s basketball program.

With the support of her family and friends Yernatich is making the most of the time she has left playing the game she has loved since a young age.

With the record set, Yernatich is looking to lead the Dragons to a strong finish this season and leave with memories that will last for years.

BY BREANN LENZMEIER
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PHOTO BY JESSICA FLEMING
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