By: Blythe Lenon
Being an athlete in numerous sports requires a lot of prioritization, dedication and focus. For sophomore basketball player Marlee Hernandez, she is the shooting guard for Mangum High School, is a base for the cheer squad and is trying golf this year. Doing all of these sports is something she enjoys deeply! “I’m motivated to be a part of school sports because I like being a part of something bigger and enjoy working hard, because I love my teammates,” Hernandez said.
Marlee has many positive role models in her life who’ve helped shape her into who she is today. “My mom has helped me get through everything and has pushed me to become the best I can be. My basketball coach has also had a huge influence on me because she saw something in me that many others didn’t,” Hernandez said.
Marlee has showcased her skills as a young athlete on the basketball floor and it’s paid off, as she is a co-captain of the basketball team. “One of the best moments for me so far was during a tournament game against Navajo, I made at least half of the points for the entire game. It felt good to prove that I was a good shooter,” Hernandez said. “Navajo was great to beat, but I enjoy playing against other rivals also, including Colbert and Hollis.”
Becoming successful as a shooting guard takes hard work in practice. “I enjoy working against Holly Lemon-Webb and Cadence Cooper in practice because they make me better and are good motivators. It’s taken dedication and putting myself last a lot of times to get the job done as a team,” Hernandez said.
Marlee is involved in National Honor Society, Gifted And Talented Club and is President of her class. Balancing sports and academics doesn’t come easy but she does it with class and care. “It’s a huge honor to represent my community and school when I play. I care deeply about the people and community here and the biggest thing is doing it all with love and kindness because that’s what’s important at the end of the day.”
