SALT LAKE CITY-   Saying Nicole Yazzie has enjoyed a strong debut season for Westminster is a major understatement.

Just 19 games into her collegiate career, Yazzie sports averages of 12.7 points and 3.6 assists per game. The freshman point guard has carved out a niche as a deadly shooter. Overall, she is shooting 50.9 percent from the field and 45.0 percent from the perimeter. She ranks in the top 20 nationally in total 3-point field goals made and 3-point field goal percentage.

Her contributions have meant a great deal to the Griffins so far. Westminster is 9-0 with Yazzie in its starting lineup and has won 11 consecutive games overall.

Not bad for a player who had a simple goal of doing enough just to earn a little playing time when she first arrived on campus.

"I didn't think I would be as big of a contributor as I am right now," Yazzie said.

Big contributions are showing that there is life after Shannon Evans for the Griffins. The four-year starter left an immense hole in the backcourt with her graduation at the end of last season. But Yazzie has done a good job of steering the ship since being handed the wheel.

The former Bingham standout felt some intimidation following the best point guard in Westminster history. Yazzie, however, never felt like she couldn't get the job done.

After all being a point guard is in her blood. It is the position she played all through high school and it is a role that offers her a degree of comfort.

"You're like the coach out there when the coaches are on the sideline," Yazzie said. "You have to know the plays. You tell them what to do. I like that. I like the responsibility — even as a freshman."

Yazzie is not alone as an impact freshman for the Griffins. Former Rich star Allie Eastman has started all but one game this season and is one of five Westminster players averaging in double figures with 11.8 points per game.

Players like Yazzie and Eastman are what Griffins coach J.D. Gustin sees as foundational pieces for his program.

"It could possibly elevate our program to the next level," Gustin said. "We've been a top-25 team for 3-4 years now. It could propel us into being a top-10 team. When you have freshmen this good that are playing this early, it just gives them an experience that is absolutely invaluable."