VYPE: What are your goals for this season?

Ruta: To make my team better.

VYPE: Which athlete do you look up to and why?

Ruta: Serena Williams, she has defied all odds.

VYPE: Who is your favorite teacher from any grade and why?

Ruta: Ms. Sassnet, she always made me feel like I could accomplish anything despite my learning struggles.

VYPE: Who inspires you and why?

Ruta: My dad, no matter how much he struggles he is always a constant support system.

VYPE: What teammate has left the biggest impression on you and why?

Ruta: Accalya King, she is one of the toughest people I have met and she’s a constant competitor.

VYPE: What does being on a team mean to you?

Ruta: A family you never knew you needed who pushes you to be the best you.

VYPE: You can pick any place for a summer vacation, where do you go and who do you take with you?

Ruta: Mexico beach, with my family and my friends Lexi and London.

VYPE: When and how did you first get into playing basketball?

Ruta: My cousin, Lexi, played and she inspired me to play at about age 13.

VYPE: Here is your chance to say hello, goodbye or thank you to anyone you wish.

Ruta: Thank you to my family, friends and teammates for being a constant support. And to my coaches who pushed me to be the best version of myself.