Aberdeen, S.D. – Northern State University head women's basketball coach
Paula Krueger announced today the additions of Alayna Benike (Castlewood, S.D.) and Olivia Hanson (Aberdeen, S.D.) to the 2022-23 roster. The pair will join Grace Miller (Fargo, N.D.), Madelyn Bragg (Aberdeen, S.D.) and Morgan Fielder (Aberdeen, S.D.) as members of the 2022 signing class.
Alayna Benike | Castlewood, S.D. | Castlewood HS | Nebraska Kearney | Guard/Forward
Alayna Benike is a 5-foot-11, guard/forward out of Castlewood High School and the University of Nebraska Kearney. She was a 5-year starter and 2-year team captain for the Warriors under the direction of head coach Leslie Tvedt. Benike averaged double figures in her final four high school seasons, notching 19.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game as a senior. She was a 3-time all-conference and all-state selection. In addition, Benike was honored on the Argus Leader Second Five team and was a Player of the Year and Miss Basketball finalist. Benike appeared in 15 games for the Lopers in 2021-22. She shot 54.0% from the floor and tallied a career high 12 points against Lincoln in early January. Castlewood won the South Dakota State Championship and finished as the runner-up in her tenure. She is the daughter of Darren and Susie Benike.
Krueger on Benike:
"Alayna brings a year of college experience; experience we believe will have an immediate impact on our team. She is a multi-level scorer with great length and will be a great addition to our roster."
Olivia Hanson | Aberdeen, S.D. | Roncalli HS | Forward
Olivia Hanson is a 5-foot-7, forward out of Roncalli High School. She was a 2-year starter and senior team captain for the Cavaliers under the direction of head coach Derrek Larson. As a senior, Hanson averaged 11.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, shooting 52.0% from the floor. She earned all-conference and all-tournament team accolades in 2021, as Roncalli won the South Dakota State Championship. Hanson was also named to the all-conference team in 2021-22. She is the daughter of Angie Hanson.
Krueger on Hanson:
"We are excited to add Olivia to our roster. Her toughness and 'whatever it takes' mentality will be a great addition to our team on the court and in the locker room."
