Dribbling down the court, sweat dripping down her face, Autumn Nichols is struck with the realization that this is her last high school basketball season. January 4, 2018, Nichols will begin her final year of district basketball with a game against Mineral Wells.

  The sport has always kept her grounded and has played a major role in her life since she was just six years old. With the end approaching, she is acknowledging the reasons she’s on the court as number 31.

  “My memaw played when she was younger, she is my motivation,” Nichols said. “That’s why I play, and that’s why I wear her old number.”

  To play basketball, you have to be responsible. For example, you must pass the drug tests, pass your classes, and stay out of trouble with school. While basketball has been her favorite sport to play, it has also influenced and taught her how to make good decisions.

  “It helps me to not get in trouble because I know I won’t be be able to play,” Nichols said, “It’s a very good learning experience because it teaches you leadership skills and responsibility.”

  Juggling school work, a social life and basketball during the season can get very hard. Nichols has to miss a lot of school when she travels out of town for games and tournaments. After school practice prevents her from having enough time to get her school work done and hanging out with friends and family.

  “I mean, it gets tough at times,” Nichols said. “Especially when we have out of town games.”

  Basketball will continue to affect her long term decisions, even after highschool. She plans to attend college for a basketball-related occupation.

  “I’m going to be a select basketball coach,” said Nichols.

  Besides her own skills, she also needs the skills of her life long teammates to win games. Nichols is super close with all the girls on her team and has grown and improved her skills alongside theirs. Their relationships go further than just the court.

  “My favorite thing about varsity is the team,” Nichols said, “I’ve grown up with them and love playing with them. They’re my family.”

  Nichols and the Bees will be playing their first district game of the season against Mineral Wells, January 4, 2018 in the big gym at 6 p.m.

  “We’re definitely going to beat them.”