Shooting for the Stars: A Senior’s Basketball Journey
With the season still in full swing, one player reflects on the passion, perseverance, and growth that define her final year
Few athletes start and finish their high school career on the varsity team. But that’s exactly what happened when Savanna Nicholson stepped on the court at Cardinal Gibbons High School. Savanna stated, “It felt good to be a freshman on varsity and to see that my coach and teammates believed in me.”
As a point guard and this year’s lone senior she is the team’s backbone. She is often the leading scorer, putting up a career high of 41 points, including seven three-pointers, against American Heritage-Delray earlier this month. Savanna has already helped Cardinal Gibbons win three district championships and hopes to claim a fourth this year. Savanna’s teammate Anaya Fogarthy stated, “She pushes us all to go out and try our hardest and give 100% of our effort along with making sure to have fun”
Senior Savanna Nicholson drives to the basket. CGHS Basketball
Although most of Savanna’s evenings are spent practicing at school, her talent stretches beyond Cardinal Gibbons; she also plays on the G Nation travel team. Savanna hopes to continue her passion for basketball in college. Savanna stated, “I want to play in college because I’ve put so much time into this sport and it is fun to me and I’m not ready for it to be over.” - Savanna Nicholson
Running up and down the court is not the only thing that has helped Savanna achieve basketball success. Rooted in faith, she thanks God for her talent, along with her parents, friends, and coaches for all the love and support they provide, pushing her to do her best. Savanna stated, “My family and friends support me in all my decisions, they don’t force anything on me which allows me to enjoy it more because nothing is being forced, it’s my decisions and they stand by me whatever they are.”
In all, Savanna is a well-rounded, self-motivated, and driven person who is not afraid of any challenges that come her way.
With all of her supporters in the stands, Savanna will be recognized in between the girls and boys games on senior night Friday, January 16. The game will start at 6 and senior night starts at 7:10.
Savanna Fun Facts
Pre Game Ritual: Skittles before every game
Pump Up Music: Country or Rap Music
Lucky Number: 0 also Jersey Number
Savanna has been playing basketball since the 4th grade
Motto: Everything happens for a reason
