As an opposing coach, Abbey Lawrence a nightmare to plan for. Offensively, she moves at her own pace. She glides up the floor and gets to all spots on the floor with ease. Defensively, she’s locked in at all times. She’s always talking and works hard to stay in front of her opponent. Abbey does the positive things that don’t show up in the box score. To opponents, she’s a nightmare to deal with. To her coach and teammates at Newark Tech, Abbey is a pleasant dream to be apart of.
Earlier last week TheDribbleDrop sat down with Lawrence to discuss her play on the AAU circuit, breaking the 1,000 point mark, why defense is the main priority at Newark Tech and more.
By Christian Mordi / @thedribbledrop
TheDribbleDrop: This spring/summer, you played AAU basketball. How was that experience?
Abbey Lawrence: I had a great experience playing for Sports U. We traveled all around the country and played against some of the best talent around the U.S. It was great to see where I stood against other girls from different states with different playing styles.
TheDribbleDrop: Last year the season was ended in the Group 2 semi-final against Manasquan. What lesson was learned from that game and how much did that add fuel to the fire for you this offseason?
Abbey Lawrence: That was a great game. We knew going into the game that Manasquan was a good team. We learned a lot from that game. One of our goals this year is to be more cohesive as a team. I think we did a great job this summer collectively working out and getting all the players and pieces together. I think we learned a lot about collectively focusing on all layers of the game, whether it be crashing the boards, handling the ball, etc.
TheDribbleDrop: How would you describe Newark Tech basketball?
Abbey Lawrence: Gritty. We take pride on working hard every single play on the offensive and defensive side of the ball. Regardless of who is in the game, you will see all players giving their all every time down the floor.
TheDribbleDrop: If you were to highlight one facet of your team that makes you guys stand out, what would it be and why?
Abbey Lawrence: I think I’m a well rounded basketball player. By that a mean I like to get my shots up but in a variety of ways. I work hard to use all spaces of the floor properly at all times. I’m comfortable attacking immediately if I see a lane, but I’m also cool using ball fakes, floaters and one dribble pull ups.
TheDribbleDrop: Last year you were an All Group 2 selection. Tell me one facet of your game your worked hard to improve on this off-season.
Abbey Lawrence: I worked really hard to improve my ball handling. I want to be more than just a wing or shooter. I know there are times I will have to push on fast breaks and make a play. I worked hard to tighten up my handle. I knew that would help me be more relaxed in tough spots under pressure.
TheDribbleDrop: Right now you are uncommitted, but will surely be playing college basketball. What is one thing you are looking for from a program?
Abbey Lawrence: Well I have offers on the table and interests on all levels from division 3 to division 1. In regards to style of play, I want to play at a school that plays at a fast pace. I love playing in transition and creating on the fly. I want to play on a team that looks for action on the offensive and defensive side of the floor. Outside of basketball, academics is extremely important to me. I just want to find a school that can offer me both at a strong level.
TheDribbleDrop: Last year you broke 1,000 points. Tell us about the game and how important it was to you hitting that milestone.
Abbey Lawrence: Well that was a big game for me. For starters, it was against our crosstown rivals, University High School. A lot of people were at that game so it was very exciting. With that being said, scoring 1,000 points would not have been possible without my amazing teammates and my coaches.
TheDribbleDrop: What’s a personal and team goal for your senior year.
Abbey Lawrence: I don’t have a personal goal, it’s all about the team really. This isn’t about me it’s about us. Our team goal is to make it to the T.O.C. and win. The last couple of years we have fallen short right before the T.O.C. and we’re focused on getting over the hump.