Former Old Dominion women's basketball player Chelisa Painter recently signed her second professional contract to play for San Giovanni in the Italian Serie A2 league. Painter, who graduated from Old Dominion in 2015, played for DCU Mercy of the Ireland Premier League last season.
Painter was a two-year starter for Karen Barefoot from 2013-15 after transferring from George Washington. The Indian River High School product averaged 7.5 points and 4.5 rebounds during her senior season, helping the Lady Monarchs advance to the second round of the WNIT.
Last year with DCU Mercy, Painter was named the league Player of the Year after guiding DCU Mercy to its first Premier League Championship. As a rookie, the 6-1 forward averaged 20.4 points and 11.9 rebounds per game.
ODUSports.com caught up with Painter to talk about her recent signing, last year's success in Ireland and her time at Old Dominion.
What was it like playing for Coach Barefoot?
CP: Playing for Coach Barefoot was great. Her energy always kept my energy high and her enthusiasm and encouraging words were always motivating.
Going into your second year overseas, what was your biggest adjustment on the court?
CP: The biggest adjustment was the rules of the game. Our steps are different, so I was getting called for traveling a lot. I had to learn quickly that I am the American and that I do not play in a system any more, so I had to take more shots than I did in college. The referee signals were also something I had to adjust to. The size, strength and speed were not a factor for me.
What attributes do you bring to San Giovanni?
CP: I think I can bring many attributes to my new team. Strength, speed, aggressiveness, style of play, charismatic attitude and energy.
What are you looking forward to in Italy off the court?
CP: I look forward to seeing so many things. I will be near Florance, but I would like to see Milan, Venice, Rome, Pompeii and Naples. I will definitely take advantage of being a tourist when I can.
What stories do you have from playing in Ireland last year?
CP: While I was in Ireland, I went to the St. Patrick's Day Parade and saw the ODU Marching Band. So, that made me very excited about my alma mater.
What do you miss about ODU and America when you are overseas?
CP: Luckily, when I am overseas, I don't have to miss out on my favorite meals because my mom sends food in a care package.
How is your Italian?
CP: My Italian is terrible. I do not know a lick of Italian.