The OHS Girls Basketball team prides themselves on hard work, dedication and teamwork. Lexi Mendenhall is no exception. Mendenhall has been playing basketball for 12 years and has recently signed to attend North Iowa Area Community College to continue her academic and basketball career. 

Mendenhall has proved herself through hard work and grit. Assistant girls basketball coach Mr. Dan Leer said, “Lexi’s accomplishments are a direct result of her dedication to the sport both in and out of the season.  Nothing was given to her–she earned the honor of playing at the next level.” Mendenhall’s hard work has clearly paid off. 

Throughout her high school career, Mendenhall has hit many records and has accomplished many things. Mendenhall was a varsity starter by her freshman year. She has continued to be a consistent starter on the varsity lineup through high school. During that time, she has been named MVP offensive player, all conference honorable mention, all conference player and first team all area. Mendenhall has also worked in the off-season on AAU teams. Just this year, Mendenhall accomplished 500 career rebounds as well as 1,000 career points. Mendenhall said, “I am excited to further my education, play for a very good coach and improve myself as a player at NIACC.” The future looks bright for Mendenhall. 

Mendenhall is an athlete who has made an impact on the girls basketball program. Her hard work as a post and her ability to defend shots from the other team will take her far. Head girls basketball coach Ms. Lindsey Hugstad-Vaa said, “Lexi has a knack for finishing around the basket and is one of the most consistent shooters we have. She has a love of the game that is evident when you watch her play and has a bright future in her college career.” The coaches have enjoyed coaching Mendenhall and watching her grow as a player. 

At NIACC, Mendenhall is still undecided of a major, although she is leaning towards criminal justice. Mendenhall said, “NIACC is a two year school which allows me to figure out where I would want to go next.” Mendenhall’s friends, family and all her coaches, past and current, cannot wait to watch her thrive at the next level.