2010-11 Razorback Preview - The Freshmen

The freshmen class is always exciting for coaches and fans. Full of expectations and wrought with ups and downs, you just never know what could happen.

This year’s class includes four freshmen. Yashira Delgado, Keira Peak, Chrisstasia Walter and Amanda Westbrook will all vie for playing time this year.

Delgado checks in from Kissimmee, Fla., where she flew under the radar of many elite college teams. She trained with the Orlando Comets summer team and that’s where she caught the eye of the Razorback staff.

"Yashira was a great pickup for us in the spring," said Arkansas head coach Tom Collen. "We lacked depth in the point guard position last year and Yashira has a chance to contribute right away. She is very quick and has a great handle. She can push tempo for us this year."

Peak is a Clyattville, Ga., native and first-team all-conference selection for Lowndes High. She averaged 22. ppg as a senior and earned MVP honors at her state’s all-star game.

"Keira Peak has a chance to be special," Collen said. "We were very fortunate to sign her during the late signing period. She might be the most athletic player I have ever signed. She has a chance to impact us right away as a defender and rebounder. She has some work to do offensively, but I think she will find a way to put some points on the board for us."

Walter is one of six native Arkansans on the team this season. She is a thee-time all-conference and two-time all-state pick who averaged 20 ppg as a senior.

"Christassia can really score with the basketball in a variety of ways," Collen said. "She can shoot it or drive it and has a nice pull up jumper. She is very athletic and should be a good defender for us as well.

"She broke a bone in her hand early in workouts, but should be back before the regular season begins," Collen continued. "I have no doubt she will help us as soon as she recovers."

Westbrook was a three-year letterwinner for the Mt. St. Mary Academy Gales. She was a member of the conference tournament championship team as a freshman and was a McDonald’s All-America nominee as a senior. She also earned all-conference honors in her final season averaging 14 points-per-game.

"Amanda will be a great addition to our roster," Collen said. "Once again, it’s another great Arkansas player that loves the Razorbacks and just wants to be a part this program. She works hard every day and is very coachable. She will play the forward position for us this season."