Born in 1984

At a DoDDs Far East Basketball Tournament in February 2001, my knee gave out after 6 years of playing back-to-back seasons of volleyball and basketball. Despite the injury, I submitted forms to the NCAA Clearinghouse and researched on Seattle University’s basketball team. I never followed through.

In December 2003, while at Seattle University, I had an ACL Reconstruction and Meniscus Repair surgeries done, followed by a year of intense physical therapy. Since then I’ve continued physical therapy and getting my confidence back in basketball. I’ve coached, been a referee, then coached some more.

A year ago I was adamant to play basketball at a more competitive level. So again, I wasn’t playing with girls but I was playing with guys. I met my partner then and was overjoyed to find someone so ambitious. He shared his dreams of becoming a professional basketball player. I never told anyone I wanted to be in the WNBA, and there he stood telling me that his life won’t begin until he would go pro and eventually he told me he’s aiming for the NBA. I would say he rekindled my love and passion for basketball. I try to support him mentally, financially, and see him grow more confident everyday. 

Trying to improve from where I left myself as a basketball player in high school is a challenge. I’ve been told by my partner that I don’t have the attitude to improve. And if I continue this way I will never ‘catch up’ or be where I want to be.

But where do I want to be? I struggle with this a lot, often cry about it, and busy feeling sorry for myself.

I’ve been trying for so long to get a girls team going but it just hasn’t happened. I’m currently practicing with the high school girls and practicing with my partner and other guys he’s invited for skills practice.

I’ve played with girls, guys, and men. When will I get to start playing with women?

(Below is a video of me in one of my most recent practices. Yes, I traveled before pulling up for a shot.)

1st video of shame. Hoping I will improve. Need to get out of my high school basketball habits and move on. Lots of catching up to do before I try out for WNBA.