Sept. 11, 2009

Despite her busy schedule as a college freshman in her first few weeks as a student, Terrapin freshman center Essence Townsend took the time to answer some questions for umterps.com. Hailing from Paterson, N.J., the 6-foot-7-inch Townsend is expected to provide a big presence in the paint for Brenda Frese and the Terps this season after an accomplished high school career at Paterson Catholic. For Frese's thoughts on her entire incoming freshman class, click here for the video.

Q: Why did you choose Maryland?
A: I picked Maryland, for one, because it's a great school as far as academics. And for basketball, Maryland is obviously one of the elite programs in the nation and I wanted to play for a winning team.

Q: What does it mean to you to now be a Terp?
A: It means a lot to me to be a Terp. Maryland was my No. 1 school since my freshman year of high school. It was my dream school in every way. The school and the basketball program had everything I ever wanted. I'm very proud to be here and represent Maryland.

Q: What are your expectations for your freshman season?
A: As a freshman coming into a program like this, I really just plan on working hard and working for what I want. I want to become a great basketball player and I'll do whatever the coaches tell me. Whatever they need me to do to win games, that's what I'll do.

Q: Who has been the biggest influence on you in terms of basketball?
A: Well, my godfather, he's the one who has always taught me to work hard and strive for whatever I want, in everything, not just basketball. My high school coach (Dave Andre) was very influential with my basketball career.

Q: What has been your biggest sports thrill?
A: Well, as a center, I love blocking shots. That's my favorite thing. In one game in high school, I blocked 21 shots, so I'll have to go with that game.

Q: Finish this sentence: "Before every game I..."
A: Listen to some music on my iPod and make sure I eat something.

Q: Is there a particular musician you listen to or a preferred pre-game meal?
A: No, not really, there's no specific song I listen to or anything. I don't have a pre-game meal either, I just always have to make sure I get something in my stomach to settle the nerves. It doesn't matter what it is.

Q: If you could sit down and have a conversation with three people, living or dead, who would they be?
A: That would have to be my mom, Lisa Leslie and Michael Jordan.