Bishop McGuinness’ Mariah Conally
By Bryce McKinnis
Entering the second half of her varsity career, Bishop McGuinness junior Mariah Connally has the world at her fingers.
She led the Irish in scoring with 12.5 points per game and added 5.7 rebounds, 1.7 steals and 1.2 assists en route to her second Oklahoman Little All-City honorable mention selection. A year earlier, she was district Newcomer of the Year and an Adidas National Champion with CyFair Elite.
“I’m determined and all-in on whatever I care about,” the 5-10 combo guard said. “I also make sure to stay humble and lift up the other people around me. I love the challenge. The mental, physical, and emotional grind. Nothing beats the feeling when a play clicks or the team comes together. Basketball is about growth, trust, and never settling for less than your best.”
Until her freshman year, Conally was homeschooled. Transitioning to full-time school at McGuinness was a worthy challenge, but her sport helped anchor her to her identity.
“My teammates welcomed me right away. We clicked fast, because we all love the game and push each other to get better. Basketball really helped me feel comfortable. It’s the one place where everything makes sense, and I can just be myself,” Conally said. “My family, coaches, and friends were my support system. I stayed organized, asked for help when I needed it, and trusted myself.”
After her exceptional sophomore year, Conally plans to keep pushing with her teammates towards a Gold Ball.
“I want to keep getting better every season, improving my game, my leadership and helping my team win,” Conally said. “I’m focused on continuing to grow as a player and person while preparing for the next level.”
Also a standout student, Conally maintains a 4.0 GPA and is a member of National Honor Society.
“Academics teach discipline, focus, and problem-solving. Those skills carry over to basketball and life. The effort I put in now sets me up for success later, on and off the court,” Conally said.
After high school, she plans to continue her athletic and academic pursuits in college.
“Basketball is more than just a sport for me. It is a platform to inspire and give back,” Conally said.”
