Maya Dodson, a rising star at Durant High School, has been leaving her mark on the basketball court, excited for the upcoming season. She has been guided by the unwavering support of Coach Will Robinson. “I’ve been fortunate to have several great coaches throughout my basketball career, but my current coach, Coach Rob, has pushed, trusted and believed in me ever since I was a freshman.”

In the realm of teamwork and camaraderie, Maya expresses her gratitude for the immense support she receives from her teammates, with a special mention for Kenedy LaFevers, her biggest supporter. On the academic front, her favorite teacher, Mr. Mitchie, not only imparted knowledge but also became a cherished friend. “He’s involved in student activities and always finds ways to make others feel valued and included,” Maya said.

The off-season was a period of focused preparation for Maya. Apart from playing with an elite travel ball team, she prioritized time in the gym, emphasizing personal and spiritual growth. “But most importantly, I’ve worked on growing in my faith and being a person that points others to Christ,” Maya shared.

Basketball, for Maya, is more than just a sport—it’s a school of life: “Basketball has taught me about mental discipline, consistency, how to deal with adversity, the importance of teamwork and communication with others.”

A standout memory for Maya is being awarded all-tournament in the Ada Tournament for two consecutive years, a special achievement that coincided with her birthday.

As Maya looks ahead to the current season, her goals extend beyond individual achievements: “To grow as a leader and be the type of player that elevates others.” Maya aims to invest in meaningful relationships with her teammates, building a legacy as a leader who cares about them both on and off the court.

The altered schedule due to moving into districts has Maya excited about new challenges and different opponents. “Since we moved into districts this year, our schedule has changed significantly. I’m looking forward to playing against different players and facing new challenges.”

Beyond high school, Maya has ambitious plans. “Play collegiate basketball and work towards a degree that will allow me to be a mentor and coach.”