Personal Statement

When I was 3, I taught myself to read. By the time I was 5 my parents realized that I have an unparalleled determination and focus. Two years later, they found me in the backyard one evening shooting basket after basket. And I never looked back. The same determination that had me reading at 3 has been the driving force that has led me to continually strive to be the best I can be. Basketball has provided me the opportunity to be more than just determined; it has given me opportunities to work hard, show dedication, and constantly and consistently improve myself both on and off the court.  My dream is to attend a four year university, while playing basketball, and graduate with a bachelor’s degree to set myself up for success in life following my basketball career.

Once I found my shot, everything else fell into place. I developed into a shooting guard with great range, and the kind of court vision that can’t be learned – the kind that is instinctual. As a result, I have a very high basketball IQ; I see the game developing, what the offence or defense is doing, and then adjust to put my team and myself in the best position to make a play. My speed, court vision and long arms make me a great defender against our opponents’ best players. And because my determination and drive to be the best can also cause me to be my own biggest critic, I’ve had to develop the mental strength that allows me to move past mistakes, on and off the court, while still continually working to take things to a higher level. Even with these strengths, I’ve had to fight to be able to keep playing. In my sophomore year, I was brought mentally to the breaking point in my personal life and discovered what I’m truly made of. I rediscovered the power of determination and I want to continue playing and developing my game for as long as I can.