South Dakota Mines women's head basketball coach Jeri Jacobson is pleased to announce the signing of Jansi Merz as the newest recruit for the 2021-22 season.
 
"We are thrilled to welcome Jansi to the Hardrocker Family," Jacobson said. "She comes from a successful high school program in Washington, as well as a great AAU program where she is one of the hardest workers."

 
Merz is a 6-foot-0-inch forward from Cathlamet, Washington. She attends Wahkiakum High School where she is the team captain. During her time at Wahkiakum she has earned All-Conference, All-State, All-Area honors as well as been voted Most Improved. She is also a member of the Honor Roll and National Honors Society.
 
"She is going to make an immediate impact on our program with her work ethic and positive, joyful attitude," Jacobson said. "Jansi epitomizes the type of person we want to continue to bring into our family. She comes from a ranching family where both parents were collegiate athletes and they have instilled those intangible qualities in Jansi that coaches love to see."
 
Merz plans to major in Biology while at South Dakota Mines.
 
"I am so excited to be a member of the Hardrocker women's basketball team," Merz said.
 
Merz added that she really connected with the coaching staff and players.
 
"They are amazing and really made me feel welcome and at home," Merz said. "I can't wait to get to know them more and be a part of the success of the program."
 
During her AAU competition, Merz was averaging 14.5 points, 11 rebounds, and one assist per game playing at the center position.
 
Coach Jacobson added, "The Hardrockers became tougher and better with the addition of Jansi. We can't wait for her to join us and see what she accomplishes as a Hardrocker on the court and in the classroom."