Ella Throndson of Evergreen Park developed a passion for basketball inspired by the legendary Michael Jordan, even though she was not born during his playing prime. Jordan’s legacy was introduced to her by her mother, Jennifer Houze, who frequently shared stories and highlights of Jordan’s career, fueling Throndson’s own desire to play.
“My mom is obsessed with Michael Jordan,”
Throndson remarked.
“She talked about him a lot. I wanted to play basketball after seeing NBA players on TV.”
Throndson added,
“I used to watch his highlights all of the time. He could play through anything and against all adversity.”
Recent Game Performance Demonstrates Throndson’s Growing Impact
Now thriving as a junior guard, Throndson is creating standout moments of her own. In a recent nonconference game on Saturday, she nailed three three-pointers in the first quarter alone, finishing with 13 points, six rebounds, and three steals. Her team, the Evergreen Park Mustangs, secured a commanding 52-23 victory against Plainfield Central.
Teammate Tatum Harris led the Mustangs with 15 points and four steals, while Shannon Farrell contributed seven points and pulled down 10 rebounds. In postgame recognition, senior forward Grace Kole was celebrated for surpassing 500 career points and 500 rebounds.
Plainfield Central’s junior guard Ella Page provided a notable effort off the bench with 11 points, six rebounds, and three steals.
Evergreen Park’s Ambitions for Team Success This Season
Though the Mustangs haven’t won a girls basketball conference title since 1989, Throndson is optimistic that this group has what it takes to reach that milestone. She highlighted the team’s ongoing progress and growing cohesion this season.
“We’re progressing through this season very well and we’re working hard,”
Throndson said.
“We have definitely improved from last year.”
She explained,
“We’re moving the ball. We’re setting the screens for one another. We’re working together more.”
Evergreen Park approached this week holding an 8-2 record within the competitive South Suburban Red Division with just two conference games remaining against Reavis and Shepard. Reavis sits close behind at 6-3, making those upcoming matchups crucial.
Harris echoed this positive outlook on the team’s potential.
“I’m very confident with the team — I think we’re going to go a long way in the playoffs,”
she said.
“I think everybody on the team brings different things, so when we come together, it’s amazing.”
Coach and Teammates Praise Throndson’s Competitiveness and Skill
In his second year coaching Evergreen Park, George Shimko has seen the Mustangs emerge strongly despite early setbacks last season, concluding with a 21-11 record. Throndson, in particular, has demonstrated resilience and dedication, even overcoming some illness during the prior season.
Coach Shimko described her as “probably our fiercest competitor,” emphasizing her relentless playing style and coachability.
“She just keeps playing and playing and playing and she’s so coachable, too. She wants to do really well. Sometimes, she really gets amped up and we have to calm her down a little,”
Shimko explained.
Scoring has increased for Throndson this season, alongside strong defensive contributions. Harris praised her teammate’s skill set, saying,
“She can really shoot the ball and plays great defense and drive. She’s a great all-around player.”
Shimko also noted that Harris is close to reaching a career milestone, needing just 11 more points to reach 1,000.
Collegiate Decisions and Continued Development for Players
Harris is preparing to decide on her college destination after visits to several schools, including Concordia Chicago, North Park, Illinois College, Moraine Valley, and Truman.
Their coach and teammates credit Throndson’s natural talent for long-range shooting as a key advantage, which she has cultivated with consistent training outside team practices.
“I work a lot outside of practice and I work with the coaches to find my shot,”
Throndson shared.
Admiration for WNBA Star Caitlin Clark Inspires Throndson’s Style
While Michael Jordan’s impact remains foundational, Throndson is now also inspired by current WNBA standout Caitlin Clark, admiring her scoring ability and court presence.
“She can shoot it from anywhere on the floor,”
Throndson said enthusiastically. I love watching her play.
