Large School Girls Athlete of the Week

CANDACE SAKUDA

Turlock center

Before the season started, coach Salinda Mabie and forward Candace Sakuda sat down to discuss the senior's role: "We talked about what we expected from her, and taking charge of the team was one of them," Mabie said. "She needed to step up in all aspects of the game, starting with preseason conditioning, to being a role model of hard work."

The 5-foot-10 Sakuda's commitment has helped the Bulldogs to the top spot in The Bee's large-school rankings and the Central California Conference. She averaged 13.5 points while leading Turlock to two wins last week, and is averaging 12.7 points and 7.1 rebounds per game.

"We always felt that she could be a force as a power forward, playing inside and outside," said Sabie, noting Sakuda shoots 55 percent from the floor. "Her strength is that she is versatile, able to play with her back to the basket down low, or attack from the free-throw line, driving hard or hitting the shot. She is a force in the key when she goes up strong."

Sakuda and the Bulldogs have two weeks before the Sac-Joaquin Section playoffs open, and they will likely play their opener at home.

"Hopefully you will see a faster, stronger team as we prepare for the playoffs," said Mabie, whose club visits crosstown rival Pitman Thursday. "We have the physical ability and talent to be successful this time of the year. We are focusing on the mental and emotional part. Pitman is key on how well we can handle the adrenaline and still stay focused.