Q & A With Ariana Moorer

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Junior guard Ariana Moorer (Woodbridge, Va.) recently checked in with VirginiaSports.com to talk about the team’s recent victories at NC State and Maryland and to preview the upcoming contest vs. Boston College. The Cavaliers and Eagles face each other on Sunday, Feb. 20, at 1 p.m., at John Paul Jones Arena.

Question: The team has won its last two games by a combined five points. Against NC State, you hit the game-winning shot in the fourth overtime to lead your squad to victory. How did that feel?
Moorer: We needed those two wins. Our confidence had been a little down. For me personally and for us as a team. At NC State, it showed me how much the coaching staff has in me that they would want me to take the last shot. I have missed several chances in those situations before, so my confidence has gone up since I made that shot. And I think our team’s confidence has gone up as well.

Question: What went through your mind when you saw the ball go through the net on that last shot?
Moorer: When I shot it, I was on my way to the ground – so then I looked up and saw it go in – I would say the first feeling I had was relief. So relieved.

Question: How much of a physical toll did the quadruple overtime game and then a quick turnaround to travel to Maryland take on you?
Moorer: Honestly – the day we played Maryland on Sunday – that was the most tired I’ve ever been. Fatigue-wise, my legs felt so heavy. But I’m so proud that we fought through it and got the win. We were all completely drained.

Question: You won two close games in hostile, road environments. What does that say about this team?
Moorer: It feels good. It shows a lot of people that we are a good team. We can beat a ranked opponent on the road if everyone shows up and does their part. We’re very happy about our two road wins.

Question: What challenges does Boston College present?
Moorer: Boston College is big so there will be a lot of emphasis on boxing out and rebounding this week in practice. Even though we do that repetitively in practice every day, it’s particularly important this week.

Question: There are three regular-season games left on the schedule. What is the focus of the team right now heading into the home stretch?
Moorer: We are absolutely taking it one game at a time.

Question: Why did you choose to come to Virginia?
Moorer: Besides the fact that it was close to home and my family would be able to get to a lot of my games, the team is what drew me. The people that I would be spending the next four years made me realize that I couldn’t have picked a better school to come to.

Question: Who or what inspires you?
Moorer: Honestly my mother definitely inspires me. Being a single parent, she keeps providing for me and she is the reason I do what I do.

Question: What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Moorer: The free time we have, I like to relax and maybe go to the mall. Buy some shoes … simple things.

Question: Do you think your personality off the court matches your on-court persona?
Moorer: I’m very well-mannered – you probably can’t tell that on the court (laughs). But I’m all about “yes sir” and “yes ma’am.”

Question: What is your favorite spot on Grounds?
Moorer: Any dining hall.