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Aubrey Kragen
Since 1880, USC has been a beacon in Los Angeles. Though it's attracted students and student-athletes from all over the world, L.A.'s homegrown talent holds a special place in the heart of the university.
USC senior
Kristen Simon grew up playing basketball at Rowley Park in Gardena, Calif., but never knew where the game would take her. Her older brothers, Keith and Derrick, taught her the basics and instilled in her the love of the game, which they would play all day and night, even when the lights went out.
"Out here, I learned how to be tough and not afraid of anybody," said Simon of her days playing against her brothers at the park.
Simon's childhood hobby turned into a passion which took her from Gardena to another neighborhood in Los Angeles -- Mar Vista -- to attend Windward School, a private college-preparatory school. While at Windward, Simon won three CIF section championships and a state title in 2011.
The 6-foot-2 forward, who considers Lakers legend Kobe Bryant her biggest sports hero, led USC in scoring (14.6 PPG) and rebounding (8.7 RPG) last season. Heading into her final season at Troy, she's taking everything in stride.
"It's crazy to me that now I play for USC, which I used to see pass by on the freeway," she said.
Check out Simon's full LA Story below:
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