Purcell’s Kenna Esparza
Riding the success of a 20-win season a year ago and the return of four starters to the lineup, it’s easy to see why Purcell High School senior Kenna Esparza is excited for her final season of prep basketball. Head coach Toney Cooper expects this team to perform at a high level in the regular season and make a run in the playoffs.
“I am looking forward to getting to play with my team for one more year and just enjoying my senior year,” Esparza said. “We are such a close and bonded team, and everyone is happy for everyone’s successes. We always are having fun and laughing and love to compete and win together.”
Esparza is a natural leader on the court. A trait she believes came from her parents.
“My parents. They have always told me take control of the game when things would get hectic,” Esparza said. “My grandparents are my biggest inspiration in life. They always support me in everything I do and make it a priority to be at every one of my games. No matter how I play they always have something good to say.”
It wasn’t just family who left an impression on Esparza as a student-athlete.
“My current teammate Haven Buchanan always impresses me. We have played together since we were very little and she always has a good attitude and works hard,” said Esparza.
On the court Esparza is focused on making the most of every opportunity, especially when they come against a rival.
“A rivalry game I love to play in is against Washington High School. They are a great team who always gives us a good game,” said Esparza.
The senior currently holds six offers to play basketball at the next level, but she has yet to decide where she would like to go. She does however know what she would like to study.
“I want to pursue a degree in nursing because my grandma, mom, and sister are all nurses,” said Esparza.
In her free time, you can usually find Esparza spending time with friends and family or watching movies. As for the goal this season, Esparza had a quick, short answer.
“To make it to state and hopefully WIN IT ALL!
