As the Wisconsin women's basketball team gears up for its final regular-season game, emotions are running high, especially for Ronnie Porter and her fellow seniors. This Sunday, March 1, the spotlight will be on Porter, Lily Krahn, Destiny Howell, and Gift Uchenna as they take the court at the Kohl Center for Senior Day. It’s a moment of reflection and celebration for Porter, a former walk-on who has become a key player for the Badgers.
Porter, who will be accompanied by her family, is feeling the weight of the occasion. "It really just hit me this week that it's the last game," she shared. The emotions are swirling, and she’s unsure how she’ll react when the moment arrives.
Building Bonds with Coach Robin Pingeton
Porter's journey with Wisconsin took a significant turn with the arrival of first-year head coach Robin Pingeton. After a major roster shakeup following Marisa Moseley’s resignation, Porter found herself at a crossroads.
Pingeton's belief in her was the anchor she needed. "She never stopped wanting me," Porter said, highlighting the mutual respect and support between them.
For Pingeton, Porter was a veteran presence in a team lacking Power Five experience. For Porter, Pingeton offered a fresh perspective that rejuvenated her love for the game. Despite the Badgers’ struggles in the Big Ten standings, Porter cherishes the new team dynamic and the growth she’s experienced.
A Future Beyond College Basketball
With graduation on the horizon, Porter has her sights set on a professional basketball career overseas before transitioning to a career in social work. Coaching might also be in her future, thanks to Pingeton’s influence and her mother’s coaching legacy. "You get inspired by great people," Porter said, acknowledging the impact of her mentors.
A Season to Remember
This season, Porter embraced a new role, shifting from a scoring guard to a pass-first playmaker. Her efficiency has soared, with career highs in shooting percentages and impressive national rankings in assists and assist-to-turnover ratio. She’s maintained her status as a cornerstone of the team, leading in minutes per game for three consecutive seasons.
Leaving a Legacy
Porter’s journey from an undersized walk-on to an indispensable player is a testament to her hard work and determination. As she prepares for her final home game, she hopes to inspire fans with her message: "Just leave your heart on the floor." Her career stats, including 432 assists and over 400 rebounds, speak volumes about her impact on the program.
Ronnie Porter’s story is one of resilience and passion, a reminder to all athletes to give their all and enjoy every moment on the court.