DUKE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
Written by Women’s Basketball Intern Sarah Smoak
QUIET STRENGTH
When Chante Black speaks, people listen. Her game itself speaks louder than
words. Self-described as “casual” off the court, Chante is anything but that once she hits
the hardwood. Entering Duke as a heralded in-state recruit out of Winston-Salem known
for her shot blocking prowess, she has arguably developed into one of the best all-around
post players in the nation. Off the court, the soft-spoken senior has already graduated from
Duke with a bachelors degree in women’s studies, and is currently pursuing an additional
degree in biological anthropology & anatomy. On the court, she is taking opponents to
school. Consistency, a trademark of every leader, is the lesson Chante delivers to the class.
Currently the reigning ACC defensive player of the year and recently named First-Team All
ACC, she continues to bring her game every night.
Contrary to her laid back personality, the co-captain battles with intense passion on
the hardwood. Her game, a stealth combination of power and finesse, makes Black a tough
match-up for Duke opponents. Possessing the versatility to score inside and outside, along
with savvy ball handling skills, and a dominating presence on the boards, Black is what
they call a “game changer.” Chante is a much deserving finalist for the prestigious Wood -
en Award, Naismith Award, and State Farm National Player of the year award among other
national recognitions. A force on the inside, she currently leads the Blue Devils with 15
points and almost 9 boards per contest. As impressive as she may be in many statistical
categories, her leadership and presence for this Duke squad is more valuable than the
impact she makes on the box score.
Perhaps her confidence and leadership was influenced by her mother, Mazie Black,
the poster woman of a strong single mother, who currently teaches kids in Saudi Arabia
following a career in the U.S. military. Following her heart and traveling halfway across
the world to impact young children has meant missing her daughter’s last two seasons at
Duke University. The distance isn’t easy on the two, who enjoy a close relationship. Al-
though she is not able to see her daughter play in person this season, Mazie is able to keep
track of Chante by internet broadcasts of games and daily phone
conversations. Her class shows avid interest in keeping
up with Chante and her Blue Devil teammates, constantly
asking for updates onthe team’s progress throughout the
season. Chante looks forward to meeting these young
international Duke fans as she hopes to visit her mother
in Saudi Arabia. Mazie noted that the moment Chante steps
off the plane she will be treated like a celebrity. Mazie Black
taught her daughter the value of hard work leading by example.
It should be no surprise that Chante is now leading the Blue Devils
by the example she sets by her consistent work ethic and relentless
effort on the floor.
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DukeBluePlanet.com
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