Bio

Dzenifera “Dzena” Rieksta's motivation comes from a simple but powerful desire — “to become the best version of a player I can be and enjoy the way there.”

Before arriving at Vincennes, Dzena established herself as one of Latvia’s rising stars. She played for multiple age-level Latvian National Teams, including the U15, U16, U18, and U21 3x3 squads, helping her country earn top-four finishes across Europe. Among her many accomplishments, she was named to the EGBL Superfinal All-Star Five (2021) and contributed to multiple LJBL championships and podium finishes. Her most memorable athletic moment came when she was first invited to join the Latvian 3x3 National Team, a dream realized through years of dedication and persistence.

Off the court, Dzena is just as thoughtful and creative. She enjoys reading, jogging, baking, and making jewelry, finding balance between her competitive edge and her artistic side. Her favorite book, The Secret History by Donna Tartt, reflects her appreciation for complexity and storytelling. She listens to Wiesulis and Tyler, The Creator, and her go-to song, “Ring Ring Ring,” captures her upbeat energy. Her favorite foods are sushi and ice cream, her dream car is a Porsche 911, and her favorite saying — “Chase what sets your soul on fire” — speaks to her bold, adventurous spirit.

Dzena’s role models include Kitija Laksa, a fellow Latvian and professional basketball player she hopes to emulate, and Kobe Bryant, whose drive and discipline continue to inspire her. She wears her number with pride, loves watching 3x3 basketball, and dreams of attending the Summer Olympics one day — either as a player or a fan. Her biggest pet peeve is “being left on seen,” and she admits she can’t go a week without her AirPods, laughter, and good music.

A graduate of Agenskalna State Gymnasium, Dzena transferred to Vincennes from Williston State College to pursue her degree in Business Administration and to keep developing her game at a higher level. She says she chose VU because “it felt like the place where I could improve the most.” Her goals include earning her Associate’s degree, transferring for her Bachelor’s, and eventually playing basketball overseas while earning her Master’s.

Coach Johnson on Dzenifera...