Malaika Kimmons '18 Recruiting Profile

Since childhood I have been interested in Math and Science.  I would tell my parents that I wanted to be a Mathematician or Scientist.  As I have gotten older I have become more interested in finding a cure to Cancer.  Last year I had an Uncle to pass from the disease and it solidified my goal.  Most recently I was able to intern at UNC Chapel Hill Eshelman School of Pharmacy in which I was exposed to various aspects of Pharmaceutical Science and the various options in degrees (Chemical Engineering and Biochemistry) and research that could help achieve my goal. 

Though I have been considered a strong student academically, I have been able to put the same passion into the game of basketball.  Playing college basketball has been a dream of mine since I started playing competitive basketball in 7th Grade.  I always challenge myself on how can I be better and how can I support my team in doing the same.  I always, no matter who I'm playing, where I'm playing or even how well I'm playing, give everything I have.  I am a natural observer and an analytical thinker which helps me in executing plays provided by my coaches.   I don't like the blame game because I feel it doesn't help in developing our skills or making the team better.  I am driven and determined to play the best game I can and I try not to take correction personally.  I understand that coaches want to win and the best out of their players.  I try to keep a positive attitude because a mistake is only an opportunity to learn and correct.  I would consider myself a team player.  I am not selfish.  If I see an opportunity to score and my teammate is in a better position, I will pass the ball.  I enjoy basketball, it has become a part of my well being.  It is a stress reliever and allows me to leave any anxiety about school and etc on the court.   I am sure basketball will be apart of my life long after college, whether I play or not.   

I think what makes me different from any other player are the things that drive me as a person, which is the desire to help others through science.  I understand that it does not benefit me if I am the only one to succeed in life, but that I want everyone that comes in contact with me to feel that I have helped them or encouraged them in some way.   I am clear that there may be better players, but I know that what I bring is passion, hard work and commitment.  I am very focused academically and have goals and dreams that go beyond the game of basketball.  If I am selected to play on the college level, it would be a privilege to be able to obtain both of my dreams at the same time.  Investing your time and knowledge into a player like me would be an investment not only in your team, but in all the lives that I will touch in the future.