HAMMOND, Ind. – The Purdue University Calumet’s women’s basketball team has secured its fifth recruiting commitment for the 2007-08 season in 6-foot-5 community college transfer Rhiannon Howard.

The University Park, Ill. resident played this past season at Moraine Valley Community College, where she averaged 7.8 points, 8.5 rebounds and 3.4 blocked shots per game. She also earned Skyway All-Conference honors and completed her Moraine Valley career as the No. 2 shot blocker in school history.

“Rhiannon certainly provides an intimidating defensive presence with her 6-foot, 5-inch frame,” Purdue Calumet acting women’s coach Tom Megyesi said. “She is an excellent shot blocker and rebounder. Her offensive skills are improving on a daily basis. She is most definitely an outstanding recruit and a welcomed addition to our program.”

Howard joins guards Jamesha Harris of Merrillville, Amanda Moes of Highland and Jenny Britton of Lake Central, as well as forward Cortney Robinson of Hebron in the Lady Peregrines recruiting fold.