Patch Interviews: Bria Hartley

The success Bria Hartley enjoyed on the basketball court at North Babylon High School has continued in her college career. Playing for the University of Connecticut, one of the nation’s most prestigious women’s college basketball programs, Hartley has made the transition from high school to college seem easy.

This past season, Hartley and her Huskies teammates made another run at a national championship, but came up two wins short losing to Notre Dame 83-75 in overtime in a national semi-final game.

Recently, Hartley spoke with Patch about the past season and her playing career since leaving North Babylon for Connecticut.

PATCH: This past season was another good one for the University of Connecticut.

BRIA HARTLEY: It was good, but we lost to Notre Dame in the Final Four. I just look at the opportunity to get to the Final Four twice over my first two years in college and really appreciate it. But we want to get it done next year.

PATCH: How big of an adjustment has it been for you going from high school to college?

BH: There is a different level of work you have to do at (the college level). You’re playing against other players that are bigger and better. It’s just about working hard and pushing yourself harder and harder. There have been times when I felt like I was working as hard as I can and the coaches find ways to make you go further.

PATCH: How has your game grown since joining UConn?

BH: For me it’s been about the mental aspects of the game. As the point guard I have to run the right play and work to do the right thing every time. I have to be the smartest player on the floor and have to make sure I’m also doing the fundamental things correctly.

PATCH: What is it like playing for Head Coach Geno Auriemma?

BH: He has a way of being able to inspire people. He knows how and when to push the right buttons on a person to make them work harder. He challenges you as a player and a person, but it’s always about doing things the right way. It’s been a great experience playing for him.

PATCH: What has been your biggest moment so far at UConn?

BH: I guess it was the first time I went to the Final Four when I was a freshman. I really didn’t know what to expect and for me it was like “wow, I’m actually here.” I was very excited about it.

PATCH:  What are your plans off the court as you continue with your studies?

BH: I did not have major this year but I’m considering the communications field. When I’m done playing I would love to be an ESPN analyst.

PATCH: How often have you been able to get back home?

BH: When I go home I like to go back to the high school and visit with teachers and friends. I keep in contact with many people from the community and try to watch the games when I can.