As Debbie Ryan attempts to lead the Virginia women's basketball program back to prominence over the next few years, one key will be for the 30-year veteran head coach to display some prowess on the recruiting trail. With young stars such as sophomore forward Lyndra Littles and freshman guard Monica Wright already on the roster, an infusion of elite prep talent could give Virginia a chance to make some noise in the ACC in the foreseeable future.

With that being said, one of the top 2008 prospects in the nation has narrowed her choices to three schools, and Virginia is amongst the finalists.

Lynetta Kizer, a 6'3" center from Potomac High School in Dumfries, will decide between Duke, Maryland and Virginia at some point in the coming year, likely in late July after the Nike Nationals Tournament in Georgia.

To beat out Duke and Maryland for Kizer will require some work. But while those two schools could offer National Championship potential in the immediate future, Virginia offers the opportunity for immediate playing time as well as the chance to help lead the potential resurgence of a once-proud program.

Kizer, whose nickname is "Baby Shaq", is attracted to UVa for numerous reasons, most importantly the positive relationships that she has developed with Virginia's coaches and current players.

"I really like the players and the coaching staff," she said. "They are why Virginia is one of my top choices right now."

Kizer recently finished her high school season when Potomac lost in the Group AAA Cardinal District Tournament. Although Potomac finished with a below .500 record, Kizer was pleased that the Panthers surpassed expectations.

"We weren't expected to finish as high as we did in the district so we accomplished a lot," she said.

Two years ago, Kizer led Potomac to the state finals for the first time since 1986.

This summer, Kizer will once again be hitting the AAU circuit, playing for the renowned Boo Williams squad.

"It's going to be my last year so I'm looking forward to it," she said.

Kizer's greatest attribute is the physical presence that she brings to the post. With her size and strength, she can impose her will offensively on the blocks. One area that Kizer said that she wants to improve over the next year and a half is her defense.

"People say that I'm a good defensive player but I want to work harder at defense," she said.