MISSOULA – The Montana Lady Grizzlies head back to Bozeman for another rivalry battle with the Montana State Bobcats this weekend. The showdown will also give one new Montana player a unique homecoming. Caitlin Lonergan will return to her hometown and her former school.
The Bozeman High product chose to play volleyball for the Bobcats out of high school, but during her first year Lonergan decided to change schools and change sports, opting to play basketball at Montana.
In her first five games since becoming eligible at the end of the winter semester, Lonergan has averaged 6.6 points and four rebounds off the bench in 11 minutes per night.
She declined to give details on the decision, but the 6-foot-2 sophomore loves the situation and role she’s found with the Lady Griz.
“When I was deciding back in high school it was kind of between the two anyway,” Lonergan said about picking between volleyball and basketball. “I love the coaching staff here and the team and just how they run things here. I think it was a good fit. I’m excited to definitely go back to my hometown. I have a lot of friends and family and a great support system in Bozeman. So I’m excited to go over there and play the Cats.”
“It’s always tough when — we had Kellie Cole from Bozeman and she had to go back, and Britney Lohman from Bozeman and they had to go back,” said head coach Shannon Schweyen. “But we’re excited for Caitlin and just the opportunity that she has gotten.”
Schweyne praises Lonergan as one of the most powerful post players she has coached. The Lady Griz will try to find some advantages inside against Montana State on Saturday. The ladies tip off a full day at 2 p.m. The men follow at 7 p.m.
