LSU junior guard Last-Tear Poa's family is deeply rooted in sports. Her parents, Natasha Kairangi and Philip Poa, are pivotal in shaping her journey on and off the court.
Last-Tear Poa helped the No.8 LSU succeed throughout the season. She averages 5.0 points, 1.5 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game. She has impressed on defense throughout the season. She has exceptional free-throw shooting, with an accuracy of 85.1%.
The Tigers (28-6) finished second in the Southeastern Conference, going 13-3 in league play, and finished as the runner-up in the SEC Tournament. LSU is 16-1 at home, 8-2 on the road and 4-2 in neutral sites.
Who are Last-Tear Poa's parents, Natasha and Philip?
The Poas are a French Polynesian family hailing from Melbourne, Australia. Last-Tear Poa was named after her great-grandmother, whom Poa could never meet.
Being Polynesian, Poa often talks about her culture to her American teammates.
"Back home, at big events, there are always people dancing. We wear hula costumes and dance. The boys do the haka," Poa said to The (Baton Rouge) Advocate.
Last-Tear's mother, Natasha Kairangi Poa, made her name playing in the Australian Women's National Basketball League.
Last-Tear's father, Philip Poa, was a kickboxer and carpenter. He had precise footwork.
Last Tear's family comes from the Cook Islands in French Polynesia.
History of Last-Tear Poa's basketball success
Last-Tear Poa has remarkable achievements and standout performances. She played a pivotal role in LSU's national championship run last season.
She can draw defensive fouls and make crucial plays.
Before joining LSU, she was seen as the top junior college transfer in the country. She led Northwest Florida State College to an NJCAA national championship and earned MVP honors.
Last-Tear Poa had to be hospitalized on Saturday after hitting the floor while attempting to take a charge. She has been discharged from the hospital per On3.
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