The Athens Drive Women’s Basketball team is more than just a group of athletes; it’s a family built on a shared passion for the game. With countless hours spent on the court, in practice, and traveling to games, these players are dedicated. Each season brings new challenges and opportunities for everyone to grow.
One standout on the team this year is senior Ava Sheppard, a talented player whose love for basketball has shaped her journey at Athens Drive. Sheppard’s basketball journey began early.
“Basketball is my favorite. I started playing in a church league in 1st grade, and I continued playing through the rest of elementary school and middle school, wanting to continue at the high school level,” said Sheppard.
Sheppard has made lasting memories through basketball. One unforgettable moment is from her freshman year.
“The team traveled to Laney High School in Wilmington for the first round of playoffs. Our coaches promised that if we won, we’d go to the beach. The game came down to a last-second layup, and we pulled through. That late-night trip to the beach after the win was something I’ll never forget,” said Sheppard.
Basketball has also taught Sheppard and her fellow teammates valuable life lessons. After enduring an ACL injury last season, Sheppard looks at life through a new lens.
“I’ve learned to take advantage of the opportunities I’m given since everything can change in an instant,” said Sheppard.
In addition, Coach Allyson Stephenson is confident that the combination of experienced players and united team spirit has driven the Jaguars to a successful season.
“Our team is seasoned,” said Stephenson. “We have four juniors who’ve already played at the varsity level, and with eight seniors, most of whom are getting significant playing time, we have the depth and leadership to achieve our goals.”
However, challenges remain, particularly with the growing number of prep schools that attract talented players.
“A lot of kids are choosing to go to prep schools, and their families are paying a lot of money for it when they could just as easily play at a public school,” said Stephenson.
Despite this, Athens Drive continues to build a competitive program that provides athletes with opportunities to shine. For Coach Stephenson, basketball has always been a central part of her life.
“I played basketball growing up, but injuries forced me to step away as a player. That’s when I discovered coaching, and I fell in love with it,” said Stephenson.
As the Athens Drive’s women’s basketball team takes to the court this season, their combination of leadership, team chemistry, and a shared drive to succeed makes them a great group of people. The Jaguars are ready to make their mark and continue the proud tradition of Athens Drive basketball.
“I love watching kids grow from freshmen to seniors. I’ve stayed close with many of the players who’ve graduated from Athens, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see how much they’ve grown both on and off the court,” said Stephenson.
