Zakiya Saunders Begins Pro Career in Sweden

ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFKnights.com) – Following a stellar collegiate career, Zakiya Saunders has signed on to play basketball professionally in Sweden.

Saunders will suit up for the Visby Ladies in Gotland, Sweden’s largest island.

“I’ve always wanted to play overseas,” Saunders said. “I’m really excited. When I was younger, I wanted to make my high school team, play Division I basketball. My main goal was to play professionally, and I finally got there.”

The Augusta, Ga., native led the Knights in scoring last season with 16.0 points per game. She scored in double figures in 25 of her 28 games played, with nine 20-plus point performances. She surpassed the 1,000-point mark during the American Athletic Conference quarterfinal matchup against Temple.

As a redshirt senior, Saunders was named to the American Athletic Conference Second Team. She ranked second in the league in steals, eighth in assists and 10th in scoring.

“After our season ended, Coach ‘ABE’ helped me find an agent,” Saunders said. “Actually, all of the coaches helped me a lot – making highlight videos, creating a profile. I had a few options, but this was the best fit for me.”

Though she’s well-traveled, Saunders’ departure this week marked her first trip to Sweden. Though she’ll be playing for the Visby Ladies from October until March, she is looking forward to exploring her new home.

“From talking to the coaches, we’ll have down time,” Saunders said. “They told us that they want us to see the different sports around and go sightseeing.”

Saunders and the Visby Ladies will officially open their season on Oct. 5.

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