Niehues Breaks All-Time SNU Blocking Record
![Abby Niehues Media Day photograph](https://www.snu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Abby-N-e1614200172358.jpg)
In the game of basketball, “the block” is one of the more demonstrative plays right up there with a good rim-rattling dunk. Even its other commonly referred to name, “rejection” brings to mind harsh visuals of something or someone getting thrown out! How ironic then for the new all-time block/rejection record holder in Lady Crimson Storm Basketball history to be one of the nicest, mild-mannered, and humble student-athletes you will ever meet.
On this past Thursday evening, Abby Niehues delivered block number 310 in the second half of a win over the NWOSU Rangers. She surpassed the great two-time NAIA All-American, Katrina Springer, who had held the record for 29 years. With several games to play in the season, Abby will set a mark that will likely stand for many years to come.
One of her favorite professors, Jim Smith, said this of Abby, “Abby is a class act all the way around. She’s as good a student as she is an athlete. I’m so proud of all she’s accomplished on and off the court.” Her head coach Trent May had this to say, “Abby is a tremendous person and student-athlete who has stayed the course. She has modeled consistency with qualities that lead to success. I’m proud of her with many others.”
![women's basketball player throwing ball up in the air](https://www.snu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Abby-6.jpg)
“One thing about Abby is that she’s very humble in everything she does. Whether that’s in the classroom or sending someone’s shot into the stands, and I love that about her. Abby and I have always had a special connection on the court like a two-man game that has been unstoppable. Playing with her has made these past four years incredible and I couldn’t have done it without her. I love you postie!” exclaimed four-year teammate Alexus Jones.
Danny Thomason, SNU’s Director of Intercollegiate Athletics said this, “I love how Abby cares about her teammates and team-first over individual success. She is super humble and always kind, she will have a positive impact on whatever she does after SNU!”
Our campus is proud of you, Abby! Congratulations to the greatest women’s basketball shot-blocker in the history of Southern Nazarene University! With the past year, we’ve all had, thank you for giving us something to celebrate.