Athlete Interview: Katelyn Young
This past NBL1 season, we had the privilege of welcoming Katelyn Young into the SRA Family as an import player for the Knox Raiders NBL1 Women.. Katelyn arrived with an incredible resume; the 14th All-Time Leading Scorer in NCAA Women’s Basketball history, a Murray State Alumn and one of the sharpest shooting bigs basketball has seen, but what stood out most was Katelyn’s humility, team-first mindset, and a willingness to play whatever role was needed for the team’s success.
Coming off the bench, Katelyn made a massive impact as both a player and a leader, helping the Raiders to a Conference Championship and ultimately a National Championship, while raising the standards of the program both on and off the court.
Katelyn has recently announced her retirement from playing basketball and is now stepping into her next chapter as an Assistant Coach at Murray State University. We sat down with Katelyn to reflect on her time in Australia, her playing career, and her experiences with SRA.
Read more below:
Section 1: College Basketball
Q1. You finished your college career as the 14th All-Time Leading Scorer in NCAA history. Looking back, what does that achievement mean to you?
It was an accomplishment that I did not realize the magnitude of at the moment, but looking at it now makes me realize how big it is. It’s truly a blessing to see my name alongside some of the greatest athletes to ever play this game. Like any achievement, I couldn’t have done it without my support system, coaches, and teammates. This is one accomplishment I’ll always look back on and be proud of.
Q2. What were the biggest lessons you took away from your time at Murray State that shaped you as both a player and a person?
Murray State is about more than just basketball. The coaches emphasized every day that our growth as people was just as important as our growth as players. Basketball teaches lessons that carry over into everyday life, and through my time here, I’ve learned how to be a better leader, handle tough situations, manage my time, communicate effectively, and make the most of every opportunity.
Section 2: Playing NBL1 Basketball
Q3. What was it like transitioning into the Knox Raiders program in Australia and embracing a role coming off the bench?
Growing up and throughout college, I had always been a starter, so transitioning into the Knox Raiders program and taking on a role coming off the bench was definitely an adjustment. I knew my role would look different, but I embraced it as an opportunity to grow and contribute in new ways. Whether it was bringing energy or a spark off the bench, I wanted to make sure I added value every time I stepped on the court. It taught me the importance of being ready, staying engaged, and making an impact no matter how many minutes you play.
Q4. The team went on to win both the Conference and National Finals. What are your favourite memories from that championship run?
Some of my favorite memories from our championship runs were the moments in the locker room after our wins. The excitement, the laughter, and the sense of pride we all shared made every bit of hard work worth it. Celebrating with the team and seeing how much we accomplished together was one of the best feelings I’ve ever experienced.
Q5. People often described you as a “team first athlete” who helped raise the standards. What did you try to bring to the group, both on and off the court?
I knew from the start that this team was filled with talented players, and my goal was to be a dependable teammate who would do whatever it took to help us succeed. Off the court, I felt an instant connection with the group. I could be my authentic self and formed some amazing friendships that made my experience even more special.
Section 3: SRA Impact
Q6. You spent a lot of your time in the weight room at SRA. How did these sessions impact your performance and overall experience in Australia?
When I came to Australia, I was still working through an ankle injury from the last game of my college career. Shaun took the time to understand exactly where I was in my recovery and gave me specific exercises to rebuild strength and confidence in my ankle. His knowledge and care made a huge difference. Thanks to his expertise and attention to detail, I was able to fully recover and return to playing at a high level while feeling stronger and more prepared than before. His ability to tailor training to each athlete’s needs truly sets him apart.
Q7. What did you learn from your time at SRA that you will carry into the next chapter of your coaching career?
I’ve learned just how important it is to take care of your body. As athletes move into their professional careers, staying healthy and strong is key to lasting success. Shaun showed me so many different ways to prepare. Everything from game-day routines and daily “medicines” like stretches and prehab work to focus on in the weight room. I want to share what he taught me with my players and help them understand that caring for their bodies directly impacts how they feel and perform on the court.
Section 4: Becoming a Coach
Q8. Congratulations on officially stepping into coaching! How does it feel to retire from playing basketball and beginning your new role as an Assistant Coach at Murray State?
It’s definitely difficult stepping away from a sport that’s been such a big part of my life, but coaching allows me to stay connected to the game I love. I get to share my knowledge and experiences with my players, and it still gives me that sense of being part of a team but in a different role.
Q9. What excites you most about coaching the next generation of athletes?
What excites me most about coaching is watching players apply what they’ve learned and use their skills in the game. Seeing the game start to click for them and watching their success unfold is incredibly rewarding.
Q10. If you could give one piece of advice to young athletes coming through the ranks, what would it be?
Often I see young players compare themselves to others and question why they’re not at the same level. The goal should be to get 1% better every day. Focus on progress, not comparison. When you commit to improving a little each day, the small wins build confidence, growth, and long-term success.
Section 5: Quick Fire (Lighter/Fun)
Q11. What was your favourite Aussie food or snack during your time here?
All of the pastries and coffee. It is so much better than America.
Q12. Who was your favourite teammate at Knox, Why?
This may sound cheesy, but it’s true, I had the best teammates in the world. Joining the team halfway through the season could have been intimidating, but everyone welcomed me and was always willing to lend a helping hand. One of my favorites was Paige Bradley. As a guard, she was an incredible resource, giving advice on how we could work better together and understand each other on the court. Having played overseas as a rookie herself, she shared insights from her own experiences, which was extremely beneficial to me. Paige really took me under her wing, making sure I had everything I needed and was always willing to help. In such a short amount of time, we built a friendship that I deeply treasure, and I’m truly grateful to have met someone like her.
Q13. What’s one off-court memory from Australia that you’ll never forget?
Being able to travel around Australia after the season was over
Q14. Meat Pie or Chicken Parmigana?
Chicken Parmigana all the way!!
Q15. If you weren’t coaching basketball, what career path do you think you’d be following?
I’ve always had a passion for helping student-athletes in any way I can. If I had chosen a different career path, I would have pursued an administrative role within an athletic department. It would still allow me to support athletes, just in a different way.
Epilogue
Having the opportunity to coach Katelyn in the weight room is one I will always remember.
Katelyn came into the Knox NBL1 program fresh out of a decorated college career, not knowing what to expect for her first pro season.
From the moment we had our first google meeting through to her final day in Australia, Katelyn was a true professional in everything she did; whether it was her ankle and hip exercises, doing extras on the assault bike or completing additional mobility and recovery sessions.
Katelyn was an athlete who took the time to get to know her fellow team mates and coaches, quiet by nature but a distinct eye for detail allowed Katelyn to leave a lasting impression on the SRA & Knox family.
I am excited for Katelyn’s next chapter in her professional career as she takes on an Assistant Coaching role at Murray State University.
All the best Katelyn.
Shaun Atkins – Director of SRA Sports Therapy