Sauk Valley Athlete of the Week: Elizabeth Lombardo, Rock Falls senior basketball player

Name: Elizabeth Lombardo

School: Rock Falls

Sport: Basketball

Why she was selected: Lombardo scored a season-best 27 points, hitting six 3-pointers in a 47-39 win over Fulton on Dec. 3 for the team’s first victory of the season. Coming out of volleyball season and helping to lead the Rockets to a regional title, Lombardo is again a team leader on the basketball court as one of Rock Falls' only seniors and team captain.

“As the senior captain of our team, Elizabeth has provided us with some special offensive performances,” Rock Falls coach Daniel Herrera said. “Two games prior was her season high with 24 before out-doing herself and scoring 27 versus Fulton. ”If you had to ask Elizabeth if there was any disappointment in that offensive performance that night, she probably would say she missed six easy free throws (5 of 11).

“The nice thing about that game overall, I couldn’t tell you if Elizabeth did anything different leading up to the game. I have spoken to her in the past about keeping a level head because as a leader the younger girls look to her for guidance and sometimes reassurance.

“As a multi-faceted student-athlete who understands how to prioritize her time and efforts, she makes those around her better. To me that’s what makes her special.”

Lombardo is averaging 11.8 points per game, 3.8 rebounds and 2.2 assists.

Lombardo is the Sauk Valley Athlete of the Week in an online vote.

When did you first get into basketball and what or who helped you get into it?

Lombardo: I have always loved basketball since a very young age and my dad is the main reason I started playing because of his love for the sport.

What do you like about basketball? Has it taught you anything? Any specific strengths you feel you have? Anything you have improved at this year?

Lombardo: I like the quick pace of the game. It has taught me to not get angry at my mistakes because I have no time to be upset over anything. A specific strength I have is my ball handling. I have improved at staying aggressive throughout the whole game.

You hit six 3-pointers to score 27 points in a win over Fulton. What went into that performance for you individually and did the team learn anything in that win?

Lombardo: Once I started hitting my shots, my confidence increased by a lot. My teammates supported me throughout the whole game and that helped me. I think the team finally felt what it feels like to win to motivate us for the upcoming games.

Any goals for you this season individually?

Lombardo: My main goals are to work on my left hand and work on a strong drive.

What do you guys hope to accomplish as a team this year?

Lombardo: I hope we gain a couple more wins.

Do you have a favorite athlete or sports team?

Lombardo: For boys basketball, I like the Bucks and the Bulls and my favorite player to watch is Kyrie Irving. For girls, I love to watch Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers.

Any other hobbies, activities, or sports you are involved in?

Lombardo: I keep myself busy with volleyball and track. I am also in band and choir.

Do you have a favorite quote?

Lombardo: “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength”

Favorite restaurant or meal after a game?

Lombardo: I usually go to Culver’s for a burger or JW’s for some wings.

Favorite TV Show or movie?

Lombardo: I love the show Stranger Things.

Favorite music artist?

Lombardo: Megan Maroney

Any favorite school subjects or teachers?

Lombardo: My favorite subjects in school are psychology and music. My favorite teacher is Patrick Anderson.