Growing up in a substantial area, it humbled me to get my family out of poverty. I was often exposed to violence, but basketball was my safe haven from negativity. My life changed when I found out my mom had cancer.
Although my high school career didn’t go as planned, my career blossomed freshman year of college thanks to my coach’s corrective criticism. I was determined to be the best player that I knew I could be. That year, I finished as the team’s most valuable player, honorable mention for 1st team all-conference and second leader in assists in the conference at Cayuga Community College.
The most crucial time in my life was the passing of my aunt Tracey. I felt lethargic after my aunt died. Before she died I promised her I would become a successful basketball player and fix our dysfunctional family.
My entire life I’ve dealt with adversity, but I started to see success when I allowed God to have his way with me. I was already without a male role model due to the passing of my father when I was young, so I turned to God for guidance. After Cayuga, I took a leap of faith to attend West Los Angeles college my sophomore year. I had no family or friends in the area, just my love for the game and a promise to keep.
But nothing tops my experience at Queens College. My reason for transferring was simple; I wanted to play my senior year close to home in front of my family. I had a pretty good season; averaged 11.4 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 3.9 APG, shot 43.6% from the field and 46.8% from behind the arc. However, my season was cut short because I suffered from two concussions. I sacrificed my body taking charges, hitting my head both times. I believe everything happens for a reason.
Now, I’m currently playing semi-pro basketball and I just want to inspire people to work hard and stay dedicated. Don’t let anyone tell you that you cant do something because if it were easy, everyone would do it.
After watching my mother win the battle against cancer, I knew anything in this world was possible if I believed in God and stay focused on what needed to be done. “Its hard to defeat someone who never gives up” is my mothers favorite quote. I now realize that it’s my turn to take care of her. It may be physically impossible to repay her for all that she has done for me. But I’m going to work for it, and I know this is the best direction for me.