NE North Dakota News

Anda Kuzmina, originally from Riga, Latvia, has pursued her passion for basketball since childhood. Her journey took her to the United States, where she played for NCAA Division I University of South Carolina Upstate and NCAA Division II Western Colorado. After her playing career, Kuzmina shifted her focus to coaching.

"That became the goal after playing. I love the college game, so coaching at that level was something I wanted to do," Kuzmina explained. "After two years here, I'm definitely still into coaching."

Kuzmina completed a capstone project on leadership styles in coaching as part of Minot State University's sports management master's program. She explored motivational styles and their impact on athletes' commitment.

"I think the capstone was the hardest single thing I've done in my academic career," she noted. "My time in the master's program was excellent."

At MSU, Kuzmina gained practical experience as a graduate assistant women's basketball coach. The smaller coaching staff provided more hands-on opportunities.

"It was a big adjustment for me compared to how it was in South Carolina," she said. "I learned the game and why certain things are working and not working for us."

Kuzmina's decision to join Minot State came through connections within the close-knit coaching community.

"I applied for Jamestown, and their coach knew (former MSU coach Mike Brandt), so I had a connection there," she recalled.

Minot reminded Kuzmina of home with its similar seasons and scenery.

"Of all the places I've been, Minot is probably the closest to home," she said.

Looking ahead, Kuzmina remains uncertain about her next steps but feels connected to MSU.

"The more I talk to people, the more they tell me to just work my way up," she said. "The United States has really become home for me."