They say, “they wish more could be like me.” “Think like me,” because I keep the main thing, the main thing. Well, there are many more like me if you are looking for it. I come from a place of confidence, fulfillment, spiritually connected to my purpose. I appreciate the journey that I traveled to get here. I’ve been able to appreciate ALL of my blessings, big and small. As a young lady, living through a tough time, I’ve grown to value and appreciate the little things in life. The small gestures, energy transferred through a high-five, hug, or words exchanged of gratitude & appreciation. I’m able to pour that into the youth and always be intentional with their experience.

Keeping the main thing, the main thing is simply knowing your purpose & main reason for doing what you do. To sit on the sideline and coach young teenagers who come from all different experiences of coaching & life, it takes an intentful focus and determination to teach the game I love the correct way. I never get caught up in the accolades, expectations of others and the external celebration of success. Through the process of teaching the game, I’m teaching young ladies how to become confident, learn how to manage their expectations and emotions through the ups & downs, and what it takes to reach their goals. That’s the main thing.

Now, let me take you back to the roots of my journey, a journey not just of a coach, but of a woman shaped by faith, resilience, and the love of a grandmother whom was tough and loving at the same time. Growing up, I saw how life’s smallest blessings could illuminate even the darkest of days. It was in those moments, the simple hugs, the words of encouragement, that I found the strength to turn my pain into love.

I remember those tough times vividly. As a young girl navigating the complexities of life, I found solace in the little things. The family time with shared laughter, a supportive Coach who provided rides and meals, witnessing the power giving and receiving. These were the experiences that showed me that grace and faith are not just words, but a way of life, a way of being that could transform even the heaviest burdens into sources of strength and love.

As I grew, so did my understanding of purpose. I realized that my calling was not just to play basketball, but to use the game as a vehicle for something much greater. I was meant to be a beacon of hope, a mentor, a guide for young women who needed someone to believe in them, to show them the way. I knew that keeping the main thing, the main thing, meant staying true to this purpose.

When I sit on the sidelines, watching my girls pour their hearts into the game, I see more than just athletes. I see young women on the cusp of discovering their own strength, their own potential. Each one comes with her own story, her own struggles, and it is my duty to honor that. To teach them not just how to play the game, but how to navigate the game of life with confidence and grace.

Coaching is more than just drills and strategies; it’s about teaching resilience, building character, and fostering a sense of self-worth. It’s about showing these young women that they are capable of greatness, both on and off the court. Through every win and every loss, every triumph and every setback, I remind them to keep the main thing, the main thing. To stay focused on their goals, to understand their worth, and to move forward with intent and determination.

As we walk this journey together, I am constantly reminded of the power of purpose and the impact of intentionality. Each practice, each game, each moment is an opportunity to pour into these young women, to help them see the beauty of their potential, to guide them towards becoming not just great athletes, but confident, compassionate, and empowered individuals.

So here’s to keeping the main thing, the main thing. To knowing our purpose, to embracing our journey, and to moving forward with unwavering faith and determination. Together, we will rise, we will shine, and we will make a difference—one game, one player, one life at a time.