Waking up to a text from a former player, telling you how much you’ve impacted their life, is one of those soul-deep reminders of why I coach. It’s not just about basketball—it’s about purpose, about pouring into others, about mentoring and uplifting young women. Coaching, for me, is a calling. It’s a blessing to wake up every day and do what I love, knowing that the seeds planted years ago continue to grow.

Being a coach has become more than just guiding athletes to victories or overcoming challenges. It’s about shaping young hearts and minds, helping them believe in their potential, and inspiring them to chase their dreams. Watching them set high standards, navigate the ups and downs, and rise after every fall is where the real joy comes from. The fulfillment? It’s unexplainable, but it’s a joy that settles deep within my spirit, a joy that satisfies the soul. It’s in those moments of growth and resilience that I realize the deeper purpose of this journey.

My grandmother once told me, “Give love as you would want to receive it.” Those words have been my guide. I’ve made it a point to coach from that place of love—both fierce and tender. And today, I’m reminded of how that love comes back in the most beautiful ways. The truth is, you can’t impact every player, but the ones you do? That impact lasts a lifetime. So, I say, thank you, God, for the players I’ve touched and for the love that keeps coming full circle. I am blessed.