Maren Mildestvedt is a starting Guard for BC Asker Aliens, a Norwegian international, and a natural-born leader with both fire and finesse. With an average of 14 points and 7 rebounds per game she has a significant effort in the game. “I just love that it's a game of trying and failing,” she says. “Basketball definitely has the most challenging skill sets. It is fast, it is passionate and it really hooked me.”

From a sister's influence on a lifetime of passion

Maren’s basketball story began in elementary school, watching her older sister play. “Her class had a cool team,” Maren recalls. “So I joined a couple of practices and fell in love with the sport pretty quickly.”

But the sisters were never quite the same on the court. “I'm 180 centimeters and she's 1.65,” she laughs. “She was a point guard, a great shooter, and played for the under 16 and under 18 national teams. I was more of a power driver and cutter”

She also played handball, a more popular sport in Norway, but something about basketball resonated deeply. “I quicker found my spot in basketball. I think I liked it better just by finding peace in it, enjoying it.”

One of her earliest memories of basketball is vivid. “I remember taking my first layup, and this guy came up to me and said, ‘Wow, you’re a natural talent.” “That feelt great’” From there, her journey unfolded with courage and heart.

Growth across borders: from Norway to Colorado

In high school, Maren took her talents to Colorado. The difference was immediate. “I loved it. Everything was structured. Practice was right after school, transportation was arranged, and the whole school came to cheer at games.”

That sense of belonging and enthusiasm left a lasting impression. “It really made me feel like part of something bigger.”

After her time abroad, Maren stepped away from basketball for four years to finish school and explore other paths. But she didn’t stop working on herself. “I had a good couple of years of just strength and conditioning. That gave me a solid foundation when I came back to the court.”

Her comeback was nothing short of remarkable. In her first season back on the court, while she was playing for Ullern, she was named to the All-Star Team. “I was really humbled by it. I didn’t expect that.”

A new chapter with Asker Aliens

This past season, Maren made the move to BC Asker Aliens. It was her first season there, and they made it all the way to the finals. They faced off against powerhouse Ulriken and lost in the dying seconds with two three-pointers from Ulriken. “We definitely had a great season after Christmas,” she says. “To be honest, I think we could have taken more advantage of our team’s strengths. We have great shooters, great cutters, and I think that when we explore that further we will be way stronger.

Representing Norway: a dream fulfilled

Wearing the national team jersey is one of her proudest achievements. Last year, she competed in the FIBA Small Countries European Championship in Kosovo, where Norway went undefeated. “It was a great experience. The team was amazing. We had a really good group of people pushing each other. I am so happy that Norway took the step to sign us up for the real FIBA European Championship. We have our first official games in November.”

When asked who she looks up to, Maren's answer is refreshingly grounded. “I have never been someone to follow one player, but I get really inspired when I see people master a skill; when I see someone who is amazing at footwork or shooting, that motivates me to get better. It is amazing to see kids now see and look up at Caitlin Clark when she shoots a three. That is so cool! It shows we are moving in the right direction.”

Advice for the next generation