The connection between academics and sports, as well as the foundation head coach Tanisha Wright is laying, is what ultimately attracted Cristen Carter to Penn State.
The forward is majoring in psychology with a neuroscience option, while on the premedical track, hoping to become a neurosurgeon after college.
“I'm a big academic person. I want to go to medical school. Plan A was always to just go to college for that, I never thought about basketball too,” Carter said. “Once I realized that I could still do both during my sophomore year (of high school), I felt like it was the best of both worlds where I'm challenged academically and I’m able to compete at the highest level.”
Carter started playing the sport in third grade while trying out different sports. However, around freshman year of high school, her passion for the sport stood out among the others.
Before arriving in Happy Valley, the Indianapolis native spent two years at Butler and a year in Georgetown.
“I have a lot of experience from different places and people from different backgrounds. So, I feel like I have a lot of experience in leadership,” Carter said. “I'm a very consistent player, I try to be the same every single day.”
Experience was the reason that led her to choose the Lady Lion program as her next stop. However, having a familiar face in the new coaching staff made the decision even easier for the senior.
Lady Lion’s Assistant Coach Kelly Mazzante worked with the Georgetown Hoyas before coming to Happy Valley with coach Wright.
“I think it's very special to have a staff that's played here and been in our shoes. It's a great representation to see people do what you want to do,” Carter said. “I love coach Kelly. She wasn't my position coach at Georgetown, but we always had a good relationship. Once I found out that she got the job in Penn State, she reached out and then everything else aligned perfectly.”
During the summer, the forward was able to get to know her teammates and create a special connection that will drive the Lady Lions’ 2026-27 season.
“I think what's special about us is that we’re 11 people from all different places, rather than being all freshmen or all transfers,” Carter said. “None of us knew each other, but we're all coming together to try to do something new. At first, it can be overwhelming, but once you realize it's one big circle it becomes fun.”
Carter wants to bring more confidence and physicality onto the court this year and build the foundation for coach Wright.
“I'm excited for us to go out and show people what the Lady Lions are all about,” Carter said. “I'm excited to bring Penn State back to what it used to be.”