As the Osseo girls' basketball season begins, Mikayla Bailey is getting eager.

The Orioles have been practicing two weeks and the senior guard, who has committed to the University of Minnesota, is itching to get out on the court and compete.

Bailey, entering her fourth varsity season, was a key part of last year's 25-3 squad that lost in the Section 5, Class 4A championship game. It's a defeat that has Bailey determined to rectify this season.

Staff writer Elliott Fifer talked with Bailey about her life on the hardcourt.

Q What does it feel like to be entering your final season at Osseo?

A It's really exciting. I'm super excited for the season to start, and being that it's my senior year I'm hoping we can go to state this year.

Q Did you play any AAU basketball this summer?

A Yeah, I played for North Tartan. It was really fun, and we went to Nike Nationals in Augusta, Ga. I've been on North Tartan for eight years.

Q As a player, what do you feel are some of your strengths?

A I bring a lot of leadership. I try to be as vocal as I can, and this year I'll try to lead the team by scoring more and bringing the defensive intensity.

Q Some of your weaknesses?

A I could be more of an offensive threat, and try to get into the lane more and draw more fouls.

Q This early in the season, what are some things the coaches stress in practice?

A We're really working on our team defense, positioning-wise and how we need to talk more. We need to strive to be better on the defensive end.

Q What is your relationship with teammates like?

A I've played with Janay [Morton] and Phillis [Webb] for a while now, and we all love playing together and are just so passionate about the game. They play together on a different travel team, but we really seem to work well and gel together when it comes time for the Osseo season.

Q What is your favorite pregame meal?

A Spaghetti.

Q You have decided to play for the University of Minnesota. What went into that decision?

A Playing AAU, I've always wanted to play at the highest level. When they offered me, it was such an honor. It meant a lot for me to be close to home, and to have my family be at my games. I really loved the coaching staff, and I get along well with them. I'm excited about representing Minnesota.

Q  Was it a tough decision to make on where to continue your career?

A I kind of knew right away. It was the best offer I got, and I just couldn't give up that opportunity. It was the best option for me.

Q What are your expectations for this season?

A I just hope our team gets along well and we enjoy playing and have a good season. Being the last year, I hope all the seniors enjoy it. We want to go as far as we can go this year, because I think we have a lot of potential.

Q If you had to give one piece of advice to young basketball players, what would it be?

A I would tell them to work as hard as they can if they want to live their dream and play basketball. Anything can happen if you work hard and love it.