Shekinna Stricklen is tough as hell

The girl dislocated her kneecap in Thursday's game. Got therapy after that, and according to Knoxville-based scout.com reporter Maria Cornelius, she practiced today and didn't even have a limp. She's going to play in tomorrow's game against Duke:

Tennessee Lady Vols' guard Shekinna Stricklen took part in Sunday's practice and will play against 4th ranked Duke Monday night.
Stricklen hit her knee in a collision in the Alabama game and was carried from the floor. When she returned on crutches, her right leg was iced.
Associate Athletic Director Jenny Moshak said Stricklen was cleared completely for practice and to play after responding well to rehab on the injury.
Stricklen leads the Lady Vols in scoring at 13.2 points per game.

Link: http://www.wbir.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=78079&catid=2

I'm bowled over.

Stricklen had already crawled into my heart with her own lion-sized heart, chest thumping and bumping ways, fearlessness and offensive prowess. This latest warp-speed recovery indicates just how much she wants to play, and so it has locked her into my heart solidly, for the next four years.

I should probably go look for some pictures of the girl now. I'm going to need them.