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If you’re looking for who’s going to be that spark off of the bench for the Bulls, look no further than Gabi Bade.
The Basics
Number: 10
Year: Sophomore
Position: Guard
Hometown: Milpitas, California
Height: 5-8
New to Buffalo?
Nope
UB Career
Bade saw playing time in 33 of the 34 games that Buffalo had last season. During those games she averaged 3.5 points and 2.3 rebounds per game. Those stats aren’t the most defining characteristics of her play though as she finished second to Joanna Smith in three-pointers with 24. Gabi started last season off strong but like many freshmen had a mid-season slump. However, the most memorable moment of her season came at just the right time. Bade was called upon to run the point after a second technical foul was called on Stephanie Reid in the MAC semi-finals versus Akron. In the strenuous circumstances, Bade looked poised as she lead the team to their first ever MAC Championship appearance and scored 13 points on the day.
Further Reading and Viewing:
Bade was the star, hitting a number of big threes in the second half and finishing with 13 points, 2 assists, and a steal in 17 minutes of desperately needed sub time.
This next one’s an oldie:
Women's Hoops recruit Gabi Bade among nation's best with Pinewood
2016-17 Outlook
Expect to see a lot more of Bade this season, but probably still off of the bench. Although her natural role in basketball is at point guard, she’s going to be a swing player that gets moved around a lot and have a shooting guard role more often. Also if it works out, Coach Jack does not playing a small lineup with Reid, Bade, and Smith in the backcourt. Gabi’s offensive game is her biggest strength — although her defense is coming along well — which is good news for a team that will be trying to generate more offensive production this season outside of the power trio. I’m expecting a strong sophomore year from the California native.