Make no mistake about it, Courtney Paris transformed the women’s basketball program into a national force, that consistently competes for a national championship. But for Paris, there has to be a feeling of unfinished business at OU.

Being a highly-recruited athlete, Paris felt the pressure from day one after choosing OU over schools like UConn, Texas, and UCLA.

Individually, Paris was as advertised, performing at a remarkably consistent clip, as evidenced by her ridiculous 112-game double-double streak. Perhaps the conclusion of the streak occurring this season was appropriate; an indicator that Paris’ supporting cast was a little more of a factor this season than in previous years.

Regardless of the strength of Paris’ supporting cast, one must simply look at some of her career numbers in order to understand the virtuosity of her tenure here.

Paris is the only player in US college basketball history — men’s or women’s — to record 2,500 points and 2,000 rebounds in a college career. She is also the only player in NCAA history — men’s or women’s — to record 700 points, 500 rebounds, and 100 blocks in a season.

In 2006, Paris was the first freshman to be named to the Associated Press All-American team; an honor she also received the next three seasons. After being named an All-American in her senior season, Paris became the first player in women’s basketball history to be named an All-American four times.

In 2009, Paris showed her leadership and passion for bringing a title to Norman by vowing to repay her scholarship money to the university if the Sooners did not come away with a championship. The ultimate competitor, Paris issued her now-famous guarantee during a season in which UConn had solidified itself as one of the most dominate teams in recent memory.

When the Sooners fell short of the title, following a loss to Louisville, Paris did not back down on her promise, saying she still intended to pay back the money, although it would take some time. OU athletics director Joe Castiglione said the school did not want Paris’ money, however.

Hopefully, Sooner fans who have watched Paris over the past four years have some kind of grasp on the magnitude of the player they have been watching.

Paris has been a dominant force on the court since day one, and a quality teammate and individual throughout her tenure in Norman.

Did OU come away with a national title during her tenure? No. What OU did gain from Paris’ presence, however, is invaluable.

The Sooners are on the map like never before as a destination for some of the top prospects in women’s college hoops.

Paris’ career is far from over, however. Paris was recently selected seventh overall in the 2009 WNBA draft and will soon be heading west to play for the Sacramento Monarchs.

The fans at ARCO Arena should know exactly what they will be seeing from their new star, who brings it to the gym night in and night out.