Southwestern Community College Women's Basketball has added another determined competitor to its 2024-25 roster with the signing of Malaina Rodriguez, a 5'6" guard from Valley High School in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Rodriguez began her basketball journey in fifth grade and quickly developed into a committed athlete through her time with multiple club teams, most notably Level Up New Mexico. Her love for the game shaped much of her high school experience, both on and off the court.

"Basketball became my life," Rodriguez said. "I played on multiple club teams until high school and then Level Up New Mexico became my main travel team."

In addition to her athletic experience, Rodriguez brings a strong academic background to Southwestern. She was a participant in Valley High School's Engineering the Future program for three years, one of only ten students to earn a stole at graduation. She was recognized as a Golden Scholar, made Academic All-District as a junior, and was a member of the National Honor Society. Her well-rounded accomplishments also earned her the Proud Viking Alumni Scholarship and a Scholar-Athlete cord at graduation.

Despite suffering a season-ending ACL injury prior to her senior year, Rodriguez remained focused on her goals.

"The summer of senior year I experienced a devastating injury—I tore my ACL and had to have reconstructive surgery which resulted in missing my entire senior season. This did not stop me from chasing my dreams," she said. "I chose Southwestern Community College because of the connection I felt with Coach Kori. I almost immediately knew I would be a great fit for her program. When I did my official visit, it felt like my new home. 'When you know, you know.'"

Spartans Head Coach Kori Zarzutzki is equally excited about the addition of Rodriguez to the roster.

"We are very excited Malaina chose SWCC! She had a tough ending to her high school career, but she is eager and driven to come work hard with us," said Zarzutzki. "She is a strong knock-down shooter from deep and comes with great energy. She's going to fit in well on and off the court, and we can't wait to see how she bounces back."

Rodriguez is set to join the Spartans this fall as the team prepares for the 2024-25 campaign in the Iowa Community College Athletic Conference (ICCAC) and the NJCAA.