Perhaps that journey will take Voronenko back to Europe some day, as she has expressed an interest to play professionally, even back near her old stomping grounds. This move puts her about four hours from Missouri so trips home should be manageable. Most of her family that lives in the United States is back in Sacramento, so proximity to home was not a major factor in picking Kansas State.

"When I came to Kansas State, it was my third visit," Voronenko said. "When I was on my visit I thought, 'Oh, this is what you're talking about.' I loved it even after I left."

Voronenko felt a connection within the team that was stronger and more fitting to her personality than she did in her other visits. "They're different," Voronenko adds. "Even Justin, my brother-in-law was saying they're always happy. They always enjoy everyday life. The team are all best friends and hang out with each other 24-seven."

Vornenko has a close bond with Patterson as well. "The woman is pretty amazing, " Vornenko said. "Those that don't know her should get to know her. We share the same values a not a lot of coaches do. Whenever we talked on the phone we talked about every day life. When she calls I take out a pencil and start taking notes. I could definitely see myself going to school and see her every day and look up to her - to be my mentor. I can't wait. I totally trust her."

That's a ringing endorsement and shows that her choice was about why she chose Kansas State instead of why she didn't choose Baylor. She enjoyed all her visits and saw a lot of positives in all the programs she visited.

Now Voronenko's off to her senior season at Smithton High School. The No. 53 ranked player in the class gives the Wildcats a presence in the HoopGurlz Top Hundred. With a top notch player like Vornenko, Kansas State appears to be building momentum after a great WNIT run last season which ended in a heart breaking triple overtime loss.

Click Here