By SIERRA GREEN
Monmouth Athletics Communications Intern
 
WEST LONG BRANCH, NJ - A transfer guard from Cincinnati, junior Brianna Livingston suffered a season-ending injury in just her second game playing for the Monmouth University women's basketball team. 
 
In a home game against Providence, her dreams of a breakout season were put on hold just four minutes in. Livingston's transition from the court to becoming the team's biggest fan was something nobody was prepared for. 
 
"To be honest it was hard at first, transitioning from being on the court to now just cheering on my teammates due to the injury," said Livingston. "Supporting the team from the sideline has allowed me to view the game differently. It's given me the chance to learn more and even give my teammates an opinion different from the coaches."
 
The Ontario, Canada native took the adversity in stride, turning it into a learning process and preparing for next year while sitting out on the sideline. 
 
Not being able to play because of injury redirected her focus to the comeback. Rehabilitation is was needed, and she would have to work even harder to get back to one hundred percent.
 
"Rehabbing was a journey," added Livingston. "I've just been trying to embrace the challenges of my trainer's different exercises, trying to maintain an optimistic attitude."
 
Monmouth head coach Jody Craig had her primary focus on the season, but was also keeping close tabs on Livingston's progress.
 
"I think it's extremely hard to have your season cut short due to injury," said Craig. "I know Bri was excited to get started with us last year and we really missed her scoring ability. She handled things well, stayed focused in the classroom and stayed engaged with her teammates. I can't wait to see her back out on the floor this year after putting in all the hard work to get back to being ready."
 
After watching her sit last season, the program is expecting big things from Livingston in 2020-21.
 
Craig has been clear on the environment she wants to sustain. "Bri will make a difference for us on both ends of the floor, being athletic enough to guard any perimeter player as well as bringing a much-needed scoring mindset," she added. 
 
"We will need to rely on her experience early as we will have a young team. I expect her to set a 'no nonsense, get down to business' tone for our group."