Choctaw’s Aliyah Duval
By Trina Walker
Aliyah Duval is proud to represent Choctaw High School basketball because she knows she is representing a program with high standards. This pushes her to be the best she can be, both academically and athletically.
Duval is a senior at CHS with confidence in her abilities on the basketball court. Her favorite accomplishment from basketball was earning Defensive Player of the Year as a freshman.
“I’m passionate about basketball because I know I have talent and I love to win,” she said.
Playing this sport has taught her effective communication and leadership skills.
“Basketball has helped me become more professional than most teenagers my age. From talking with college coaches to communicating on the court and being a leader all around, I’ve learned how to handle myself with confidence and maturity,” Duval said.
Duval has met amazing people throughout her basketball career. Brooke and Bre Curry are two people who have left a huge impression on her. Through them, she has seen firsthand that hard work always pays off. She also finds inspiration in her assistant coach, Ana Llanusa.
“She is always working hard and teaching me how to become both a better player and a better person,” Duval said.
One of the best parts of being on a team is working with a group that shares the same mindset and goal. Through her team, she has made amazing friends with whom she can share her love of basketball.
Duval’s introduction to basketball was as a replacement on her sister’s team when they needed a fill-in.
“One day, their coach asked me to fill in for a tournament and I loved it. After that, my mom signed me up for a real team. I’ve loved the game ever since. I’m beyond thankful to my mom for giving her all to make sure I succeed in the sport I love,” said Duval. “My family has always been my biggest supporters. The car rides, the love and encouragement, the extra money for travel and most of all, showing up to every single game. I wouldn’t be here without them.”
In school, math is Duval’s least favorite subject, but her favorite teacher is Coach Jones, who teaches Algebra. His teaching made her least favorite subject understandable and fun.
After high school, Duval will continue playing basketball at Oral Roberts University while majoring in Business Management.
