Washington’s Laney Gay
By Ivy Knapp
Senior Laney Gay has grown up in Washington, so being a student-athlete here means even more to her. Since she’s lived in the community her whole life, she feels a strong connection to the school and the people around her. Being an athlete at Washington is something she truly cherishes.
“We get the opportunity to be involved in things that others cannot do,” she said.
Her favorite place to play is the Big House. She loves it because of the energy, crowds, and the experience.
“Not everyone has the opportunity to play in it.” Laney said.
For her, getting to step on that court is something she doesn’t take for granted. When it comes to who has been her biggest influence, Laney doesn’t hesitate. “My mom,” she said. “She has taught me to do what’s right, work hard, and to always seek God.”
This season, she’s especially been impressed by teammates Kelby Beller and Presley Johnson. Laney plays post, and she enjoys her position.
“I don’t care where I play, just wherever my coach needs me,” she said.
That kind of attitude shows the kind of teammate Laney is.
In the classroom, Laney’s favorite class is English with Mrs. Heyes. Outside of sports, she stays busy with National Honor Society and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
The game she looks forward to most is against Dale because it’s always close and intense. When asked what’s the toughest gym to play in, she says Yukon. “With the crowd being close to the court, it’s always so loud,” she said.
Laney also has her own routine to get ready on game days. Mentally, she sets goals for what she needs to do and what her role is. Physically, she does a little extra stretching on her own, more than what the team normally does together.
Her goals this season shows the kind of team player she is. “I want to be there for my teammates and to utilize the life lessons learned while playing.”
Her advice to younger players is, “work hard at anything even when life gets hard, because it will.” Laney said.
After high school, Laney plans to head to Oklahoma State University and become an architect.
