Q&A with Ellie Rengstorf (2020)
Fresh off her final AAU season, Red Oak’s Ellie Rengstorf is looking to make a run at the state tournament. This summer she played with Nebraska Attack and had a great season on the inaugural Under Armour circuit. Rengstorf is a small guard who can play both guard spots on the floor. Standing at 5’6, Rengstorf has a really solid feel for the game on the offensive end. This past high school season she scored 8.7 points a game on 28.6 percent shooting from the field. Both of those numbers will see a rise this upcoming season because her scoring ability was something that I thought looked much improved.
Rengstorf is also a threat to find the open man for an easy basket. Last season she averaged over two assists a game, another number that will likely rise due to the returning talent that Red Oak has. Rengstorf’s passing ability has been a little underrated the past few years but I think this is the year that those numbers see quite the uptick. Defensively, she is a menace. A tight defender who plays on the ball really well, Rengstorf has quick hands allowing her to knock the ball away. Last season she had 46 steals and after playing some of the best talent in the country this summer, Rengstorf’s defense should be on another level.
Rengstorf has quietly become one of the top players in the state as well as a highly sought after small college prospect. Currently ranked as the #30 player in the state, Rengstorf would be a nice addition to a multitude of schools. According to Prep Girls Hoops Iowa she is the fifth best senior remaining uncommitted. I took some time to talk with her about her game, the upcoming season, and where her recruiting stands as of now.
What do you think the strengths of your game are?
My strengths are my defense and leadership. I think I play good on ball and help defense. I’m pretty quick so I’m constantly moving and just trying to create turnovers. I’m also a good leader who tries to bring good energy every time I step on the floor.
How did you think that AAU went this summer for you?
AAU went really well for me this summer. I went out of my comfort zone and played up on a team that had some amazing athletes. Having them push me two to three times a week and playing the schedule we did helped a lot. It helped me grow as an athlete and it helped me gain confidence playing at another level.
What are you continually working on within your game?
I am constantly working on my shot and ball handling.
How does playing volleyball enhance your ability to play basketball?
In volleyball I’m a setter so I am forced to be vocal 24/7 and I think that transfers to basketball. Volleyball is also a quick game and I think that it helps me stay quick on my feet for defense.
What are your goals, both for Red Oak and individually, for this upcoming season?
I want us to make a deep run at state this year. We have a strong team and I think we can do really well. Another big goal of mine is to be conference champs. It will be hard, the Hawkeye 10 has some great teams but I think we can do it. Individually I want to have a bigger offensive game this season.
How has your recruiting gone thus far?
Recruiting has gone really well for me. I am waiting on a couple of calls and might go on a few more visits but I’m starting to narrow down my options.