Just a few months ago, Ashley Beverly-Kelley was sporting the purple and white of the Minor Tigers.

Beverly-Kelley is now starring for the Troy Trojans, as a freshman. Beverly-Kelley is second on the team in points per game, averaging 12.9 points per game. One of the biggest differences from high school to college is matching up with girls who are much taller than she is.

Beverly-Kelley is listed at 5-foot-6-inches tall, shortest on the Troy roster.

“Playing the bigger girls is different,” said Beverly-Kelley. “In high school, players were better than others, but here you have to be sound in your game because everyone is so good, and so tall.”

Known as “Monkey” to her teammates, Beverly-Kelley says that she has a pre-game routine that has carried over from her high school days.

She keeps a stuffed monkey in her locker, and always gives it a pat before heading to the court.

“It’s just something that calms me down,” said Beverly-Kelley. “I remember to have fun and just play the game.”

Despite the season getting off to a rocky start, Beverly-Kelley believes the Trojans are building success and getting better with every game.

“The coaches have confidence, and the carries on to the players,” said Beverly-Kelley. “Anyone can play in high school, but to play at college you have to be smart, confident and willing to work hard.”

The Trojans host Sun Belt Conference foe Florida Atlantic Friday at Trojan Arena. Tip off is set for noon.