This week’s athlete spotlight shines on Ava Jones, a senior standout for the White County Warriorette basketball team. With a blend of skill, determination, and leadership, Jones has earned her spot on the All-District 7AAA First Team and the All-District Defensive Team, solidifying her status as one of the top players in the district.
Jones has been a dedicated member of the Warriorettes throughout her high school career, having also played three seasons on the middle school team. Her love for the game began early, as she participated in AAU basketball, even playing with middle school teams as a fifth grader. Now, as the lone senior in the starting five, she feels a profound sense of responsibility to guide her teammates both on and off the court.
“I had to step it up this year, be that leader like girls before had been for me,” Jones said. “I feel that my strength comes in my ability to encourage my teammates, to help them get their confidence back when they are struggling.”
The recent regional semi-final game showcased her leadership as the Warriorettes found themselves in a tight battle, down by a point after the first quarter and clinging to a slim lead at halftime. Head coach Michael Dodgen posed a challenging question to Jones and the other seniors: were they ready to hang up their uniforms? Inspired by this moment, Jones rallied along with her teammates to fight for their season, leading to a decisive 50-28 victory. In that game, she scored 14 points, secured nine rebounds, and made three steals.
“They are a really good team,” Jones reflected. “They came with a lot of momentum and that stumped us. It’s fair to say we were a little scared for a few minutes, but, after Coach Dodgen challenged us in the locker room at halftime, we fought together to get it done.”
That victory propelled the Warriorettes to the Regional Championship Game and a chance for a substate berth - an opportunity Jones is eager to seize.
“Last year we were so close to going to state, losing at the buzzer,” she said. “Taking that next step would be a great way to close out my high school career. We just have to get in the right mindset.”
Looking ahead, Jones knows the importance of the upcoming Regional Championship Game.
“The first step will be winning Wednesday’s game and getting to play our substate game in Sparta. We want that home game; it would mean a lot to get to play here in front of our fans one last time,” she said, expressing her gratitude for the unwavering support from the White County community. “It would be so exciting to see the crowd and feel that energy. I can only imagine how loud it would be.”
Regardless of how her high school career concludes, Jones is deeply appreciative of the experiences and lessons she has gained through the Warriorette program.
“Coach Dodgen and all of the coaches have really prepared us for basketball -and life - beyond high school,” Jones remarked, revealing her plans to play basketball at Trevecca Nazarene University next season after receiving a full scholarship. “Our practices are always intense and intentional. I know that there will be a lot of changes moving to the collegiate level, but Coach Dodgen has done all he can to prepare us to take that step.”
As for Coach Michael Dodgen, the respect between himself and Jones goes both ways, with the coach saying that Jones is a true model student athlete.
“Ava’s a kid that’s been with us for four years; she’s kind of worked her way up through our programs and followed some kids that were good leaders. She’s tried to bring that quality to our team this year,” Dodgen said. “She leads by example on and off the floor. She’s a really good academic student and does things exceptionally well for us on the floor. She’s one of those kids – the true model of a student athlete that does the things that you want every kid to be able to do, and she’s done it with integrity and class.”
As her time at Roy Sewell Gymnasium comes to a close, Jones acknowledges the emotional weight of leaving a place she loves.
“It’s been great. I love this place. I’ll miss it,” she said. “But I’m also excited to see what the future holds. I’m just going to trust God and keep enjoying the opportunities that come my way.”
Ava Jones is not just a talented athlete; she is a leader and an inspiration, embodying the spirit of the White County Warriorettes as they strive for greatness.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here