I’ve loved the game of basketball ever since I watched my older brother play in the gym as a little girl. There was just something about the atmosphere of watching a game that inspired me to want to play and get better. But it wasn’t until my ninth-grade year, when I transferred to Brookland High, that I really started to develop my passion for the game. My coach at the time played at Clemson, and she modeled all of her practices and plays after what she learned while she was there.
From a very early age, I learned what it was like to work hard and play at a high level. By the time I reached the tenth grade, I started to watch the college game more and more. That’s when I realized I could use my abilities on the court to get an education and play the game I love at the collegiate level. That’s when my journey to playing college basketball began.
My College Basketball Journey
My college career started at Oklahoma Baptist and it was a bit of a blur, to be honest. I was dealing with injuries and the COVID-19 pandemic, so I didn’t have a lot of memorable moments on the floor. That being said though, I still talk to one of my former teammates from that team, and we played together five years ago. One of the best things about my college basketball experience has been the friendships I’ve made.
After my time at Oklahoma Baptist, I transferred to Valdosta State, where I got to play for Deandra Schirmer and had my daughter, Elleauna. I had a great relationship with Coach D, and we had a lot of success in my first year off my pregnancy. We went on a 27-game winning streak, and I ended up being named an All-American that year. Like I said, I’ve enjoyed playing at all the different stops, but when you’re winning and having success, it’s a lot more fun.
The following season, Coach D was transparent with us and let us know that she was interviewing for coaching positions. She wanted us to hear it directly from her, and I really appreciated that transparency. I had been through coaching changes before, but it’s never easy. I was grateful to Coach D for being upfront with us and letting us know what was going on. I could tell that she cared about us and our future, and that made me trust her even more. When she ended up getting the job at UTC, I decided to follow her to Chattanooga because of the great relationship we had developed.
The High and Lows
In my two years at UTC, I’ve had to deal with injuries, including an injury that made me miss the entire season a year ago. Most recently, I missed four games coming back from a different injury. It’s been a journey, both physically and mentally, but I’ve learned that you have to take care of your mental health first. If you’re not in the right mindset, it’s hard to come back from an injury and play at a high level.
I’ve tried to stay focused on the present and not worry about the what ifs. It’s not easy, especially when you’re watching your teammates play and you want to be out there with them, but I’ve learned to take it one day at a time and trust the process. Dealing with injuries has definitely been challenging, but it’s also made me stronger. I’ve learned to persevere through difficult times and to never give up on my dreams.
Some of my favorite memories during my time at UTC have been the off-the-court moments with my teammates. We’ve had a lot of fun exploring Chattanooga together, whether it’s white-water rafting or tailgating at football games. On the court, some of our comeback wins earlier in the season were really special. The camaraderie and family atmosphere that we’ve developed are what makes playing for UTC so rewarding.
And the fans here in Chattanooga are amazing. They have so much passion and love for the game, and it’s an honor to play in front of them every night. Their support means the world to me and my teammates, and we couldn’t do what we do without them.
Looking Ahead
As I look to the future, I plan on staying in Chattanooga for the next five years or so. I’m in the Masters of Accounting program, and I’m hoping to find a job in accounting or data analytics. I’ve also considered working in sports, maybe working for a professional team in accounting. But for now, I’m focused on being a great mother, finishing my degree and helping our team win a Championship.
It’s been a long and challenging journey of seven years, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I’ve learned so much about myself and what I’m capable of, and I’m grateful for all the opportunities that basketball has given me. I’m excited to see what the future holds, and I’m ready to take on whatever challenges come my way.
