Getting to Know U: Senior Dru Gylten
Utah's Dru Gylten enters her senior year with the Utes and has appeared in 83 career games. Earlier this month, she moved into sixth all-time on the career assists list. Prior to the season, she was named to the Nancy Liebermann Award watch list for the third straight season. Through eight games this season, Gylten is averaging 7.1 points, 5.9 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game. This season, she has multiple games with eight or more assists, including nine versus Gonzaga on Nov. 26. Against BYU on Dec. 4, Gylten dished out a team-high eight assists.
Gylten recently caught up with UtahUtes.com to chat about why she is looking forward to this season, what made her fall in love with the game, and her dream job after graduation.
Season tickets for the 2021-22 season are now available. Floor seats are priced at $100 while general admission tickets at $25. Call the Utah ticket office at 801-581-UTIX or visit www.UtahTickets.com.
Q: When did you start playing basketball? Who was your favorite player growing up?
A: I have been playing basketball for as long as I can remember. I was born with a basketball in my hands! I was in a youth basketball league in Kindergarten. I didn't really have a favorite player growing up, but my dad was a basketball coach at the time, so I always looked up to the older girls he was coaching.
Q: What about the sport of basketball made you fall in love with it?
A: I fell in love with basketball because of how competitive the sport is and the balance of teamwork and being an individual. You are forced to become a better player for your team but also have to have the openness to work with your team on the court. Basketball also came very natural to me, so I just love it!
Q: What about the University of Utah made you want to continue your career here?
A: The amazing environment of the facilities, the beautiful city that the college is centered in, and the opportunity to play in the best conference for women's basketball.
Q: What has been your favorite part about playing basketball at Utah so far?
A: My favorite part would have to be all the people I have met, played with, and played against, and those friendships are very impactful.
Q: Who in your life has been the most influential in getting you where you are today?
A: It would definitely be my family. My parents risked a lot to get me to where I am today, and my family has supported me since day one.
Q: What is your dream job and why?
A: My dream job would be a part-time PA so I could still help people who need medical help and have the time to be with my family.
Q: What was it like growing up in your hometown? Any specific memories that stand out?
A: I loved growing up in South Dakota. The wide-open spaces and the beautiful Black Hills are where I call home! I am definitely, a small-town where everybody knows everybody, but I knew that everyone cared and wanted to see me succeed. Some memories that stand out are playing outside with my siblings, going on long horseback rides with my family, and enjoying all the summers in the gym!
Q: What is your favorite basketball moment growing and why?
A: My favorite basketball moment growing up was winning 4-straight high school championships, all the teammates I had, all our hard work and dedication, those were the times when all that work paid off, and we proved to the entire state we were the best!
Q: What is something people might not know about you?
A: I am a country gal at heart!
Q: What are you most looking forward to this season?
A: I am most looking forward to having fans back in the Huntsman this season. It was very difficult to play last year in empty gyms, so getting friends, fans, and family back in the gym will be awesome!
Q: What is your favorite moment as a Ute?
A: Beating Stanford for the first time in school history!
Q: How appreciative are you for our fans?
A: Very! Especially the ones who I see every single game no matter who or when we play. Their dedication does not go unrecognized, and I love seeing their smiling faces!
Q: If you could tell our fans one thing, what would it be?
A: Keep showing up! And as always, GO UTES
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