She rebounds like Dennis Rodman, but can score too?
It sounds too good to be true, but the Flathead girls' junior varsity basketball team has a player that fits this mold. Junior forward Lindsay Hopkins leads the team in scoring with 11.9 points per game and rebounding with 5.5 boards per game.
Hopkins shows the same intensity to rebound as Rodman - and at times this intensity can lead to aggressive play.
"Dennis Rodman is a rebounding animal," said Hopkins, admitting, "one of my strengths is throwing elbows."
Nobody in the NBA works harder than Rodman, and Hopkins shows that same work ethic said her sister, Kristin.
"When Lindsay was younger she used to worship (past Bravettes) Sarah Page, Molly Moore, and Tracy Landsberger," said Kristin. "Now she's succeeded to the level they have."
For inspiration, Hopkins looks to her friend Jodi Hagestad and track and basketball coach Gary Moen.
"I learned everything I know from Jodi Hagestad," said Hopkins. "It's really fun to play for (Moen)," Hopkins added of her coach.
The JV Bravettes 14-2 record is due in large part to Hopkin's hustle and strength inside the lane.
"She has a nose for the ball," said JV coach Gary Moen. "(She) is a good shooter around the basket and protects the ball really well. She's a complete player."
Hopkins has scored 40 points in the last three games for the Bravettes and has pulled down 20 boards in that same stretch.
Hopkins is the only junior on a young team consisting of sophomores and one freshman. Moen said Hopkins provides leadership out on the floor for the younger players.
This leadership, along with steady production from her teammates, has lead to their strong season.
"They're all really good players," said Hopkins of her teammates. "It's a good opportunity to play with them. We have a lot of fun."
As far as Rodman goes, he may be a great basketball player, but most people recognize him by his dyed hair or his "different" choice of clothing.
Said Hopkins: "I would rather by respected for my playing than my antics off the court."