Personal Statement
Always passionate about basketball, I began playing in 1st grade in a recreational league for the city of Raleigh. Amidst a childhood shrouded by many family (parent’s divorce) challenges, playing on the local basketball court with my younger brother and childhood friends was initially a welcome escape that essentially enhanced my love for the game of basketball.
Subsequently, it was a chance meeting with an AAU coach that presented me with the opportunity to play basketball at the next level. Initially unable to afford the required fees to play in his league, Coach C said he saw potential in me and offered to pay my required fees so as to secure me as one of his team members.
As basketball took center stage in my life, I was also driven to succeed in other areas. As an A/B honor roll student my ultimate collegiate goal is driven by my desire to be of service to the economically and medically disadvantaged members of our community. My short-term goal is to acquire a bachelor of science in nursing with the intention of ultimately pursuing a career as a physician assistant.
Often described as a compassionate team player by my coaches and team members, I have played as the power forward and center in most teams. Additionally, one of my most notable attributes is my ability to adapt and play any role required of me by the coach to win the game. Another of my attributes is my ability to lead and to unite team members and people. Moving to a new school at the start of my junior year was a challenge that tested these abilities. Amidst new coaches and new teammates, I was able to quickly adapt into the dynamics and rhythm of the team. Notably, my new school basketball team went on to win their first conference championship in 23 years.
In my young life, I have faced and encountered a few challenges that could have broken many teenagers, yet these experiences have only strengthened me and are potentially the driving force behind my desire to succeed. Finally, as I aspire to get a college degree as a basketball recruit, I am convinced that failure is not an option. Ultimately, I believe that in the end through persistence and perseverance all my collegiate and basketball dreams will come true as I strive to be the best that I can be.
