John A. Logan College women’s basketball coaches Marty Hawkins and Amanda Buldtman concluded their off-season recruiting efforts last week with the announced signing of Zenta Liepa of Riga, Latvia.

Liepa is a 6-foot 1 forward/center who averaged 17 points per game in the Latvian Women’s Basketball League (college-age league). A focal point of a championship team, Liepa was also a candidate for the Latvian Youth National (Under 20) team after having participated on the national team previously. Liepa has played with and against the best competition in her age group since 2004 when she was a member of a 16-and-under national team.

Hawkins said that although he’s not seen the European play in person, she comes highly recommended.

“She brings international experience with her,” he said. “I don’t know how physical a player she is, but I am confident Zenta will be able to play and contribute for us.”