For my people, basketball is an act of liberation. Liberation from the shackles of expectations created by the world, pushed onto us, and demanded of us to meet. Basketball feels like a direct response to those expectations, and that response is ‘no’. It is actively choosing freedom when the idea of being subconsciously chained seems easier. Growing up, I was told that not everything that comes easily is worth it; therefore, I wanted to showcase an individual who always steps up to the plate, aims to control her narrative, and defies the odds.

In recent years, I have seen countless phenomenal women on the court defying those odds. From Angel Reese bringing thousands more eyes to the WNBA to A’ja Wilson breaking and holding records in that same realm, and my good homegirl—phenomenal basketball player—our muse—Naomi —graduating with her Master’s in Social Work this past weekend. Naomi is not only willing to change the world around her but also ready to do so, providing healing for generations to come simply by the way she exists.

Basketball is not just a sport. While yes, it is about scoring, missing shots, turnovers, and championship titles—it has always been about defying the odds and wanting more. It’s about giving tomorrow’s leaders someone to look up to.