Junior Jacqlyn Rice is very excited to say she is a part of the basketball All State team. This is an award for basketball players based on their stats and performance. Rice averaged almost fifteen points per game for her team this year. She is one of fifteen girls in the state to be on the Indiana Small School All State team. She made it a goal at the beginning of the season to be on the All State team.
She was beyond excited to hear the news.
“I was sitting with a group of friends when I got the news, through a text, that I made it, and I was so excited. Everyone else was confused, but it was a great feeling to know that all of my hard work throughout the season had paid off. My teammates were also excited for me,” said Rice. “At the beginning of the season, I told my family that it was one of my goals. They were all very supportive, and now I did it! I am very excited.”
It took lots of hard work and dedication for her to get this far, and she plans on continuing her hard work and playing in college.
“I have been playing basketball since I was old enough to hold a ball. The first time I played a game was in second grade, and after that, I knew that I was in love with the sport. I plan on playing in college, hopefully a small school, but I will clearly go wherever my best offer is,” said Rice.
Rice plays basketball year-round. After school season ends, she starts travel basketball. Rice believes that travel ball is where she benefits the most.
“I prefer travel ball because of the competition. It is a much faster pace and has a higher intensity. That is where I get most of my exposure. From playing travel ball, many college coaches have watched me. Thinking about my future is what keeps me going during both travel and school season. I like to set goals and work hard until I achieve them,” said Rice.
Basketball has had a huge impact on her life, and Rice has so much respect for the people who have helped make her better over the years.
“Basketball had influenced my life in every way possible. It motivates me, keeps me out of trouble, keeps me focused and helps me create goals. Being a part of the All State team has really made me feel accomplished, and it is such an exciting thing!” said Rice.
Story by Kaden Lewellyn