After a season in which the Reserve Christian girls basketball team won only two games, the Eagles are soaring in 2009 after clinching the District 10-C title on Tuesday. Junior point guard Daysha Blount is a key reason.

Blount led the Eagles with 24 points in her team’s district clinching win over Grand Isle on Tuesday, and leads RCS in scoring on the season. She has been one of the team’s most effective performers in each of the past two years.

In his first season with the team, Reserve coach Richard Englander didn’t set out to change the way Blount played or ran the team before the season. He saw her play as a strength to build on.

“She brings a tremendous amount of leadership. Her teammates respect who she is as a person, as well as what she does on the floor. They look to her as a go-to person.”

Englander said Blount earns that respect by combining determined play with a down to earth demeanor.

“She’s very respectful of others and humble,” he says. “She’s learning what it takes to be a champion on and off the floor.”

So, let’s get to know Daysha Blount.

What do you enjoy most about playing basketball? I enjoy the feeling of being unified with my team on the court and just having fun.

What do you like best about being a student-athlete? I like it because playing basketball helps me want to do well in school.

Do you feel an added responsibility of being a role model as a student-athlete? Yes, because my standards are set higher than most, and I always have to be aware of my actions.

Most memorable game? The most memorable game was when we played First Baptist Slidell. I had a volleyball game that day, and I made it back in the second half and lead my team to victory.

Who has been the most influential person in your school sports career? My uncle.

Who is your favorite athlete? Cappie Poindexter.

Favorite team? Los Angeles Sparks.

Favorite School subject? Spanish 1.

Plans after high school/college major? My plans are to continue my basketball career in college, and majoring in computer programming.

Favorite movie/tv show/actor-actress? My favorite movie is Why Did I Get Married, my favorite tv show is Charmed, and my favorite actor is Brad Pitt.

Favorite type of music? Rap and R&B.

Favorite food? Sushi.

Best vacation? Going to Las Vegas, Nevada.

Best thing about living in St. John Parish? Being able to attend Reserve Christian.

Hobbies: Sports, talking on the phone, and going out with friends.

Parents: Dayna James and Damone Blount.