We caught up with TIS Basketball player Samiyah Ellis to talk about what this year has been like for her.
VYPE: What are your personal goals for the year?
My personal goals for the year are to just grow as a person, grow in my basketball journey, and continue to be the best I can be.
VYPE: What is the most fun you have had in the last year?
Playing for my AAU team in the summer.
VYPE: Who is your favorite teacher from any grade, and why?
My PE teacher from middle school and 9th because the class was very fun and energetic.
VYPE: What is your favorite athletic memory?
Winning state last year and sub-state this year, and in the summer playing in the Dallas Cowboys stadium.
VYPE: What teammate has left the biggest impression on you and why?
My AAU teammate KaMyra because of her work ethic and drive to be one of the best.
VYPE: What is your favorite part of being on this team?
My favorite part of being a part of this team and the leadership role that I have on the team. I like to be able to give what my team needs from me at any time and compete with them while having fun.
I also love the coaching staff that we have. All of our assistants along with our head coach Ej Garnes puts so much work into this team to make sure that we’re successful at all times to the best of our ability and I appreciate all of them always for everything they’ve done for me.
VYPE: You can pick any place for a summer vacation. Where do you go, and who do you take with you?
The Bahamas, and I would take my support system: My dad Chris, My stepmom Tionne, My uncle Larry, My aunt Bri, and my grandparents. They sacrifice the most time and effort when it comes to my basketball journey and has and will always be by my side. I thank them for everything they’ve done for me so if I had the opportunity to treat them on vacation, I would in a heartbeat.
VYPE: If we gave you $500 and you had to spend it in the next 24 hours, what would you spend it on?
Definitely food, shoes, and clothes!
VYPE: Do you participate in any community service projects?
Yes, I help give back to school supplies in the summer for the convoy of hope.
VYPE: What Clubs or Campus groups are you involved with and why?
I play for a club called the KS Bluejays coached by Kendrick Barber. He means a lot to me and has been my coach/trainer for the last 5 years now, and has been a huge part of my individual growth as a player.
I chose to be a part of this family because of the exposure our coach puts us in to be seen by as many coaches as possible, and the hard work that he and my teammates put in every day, it really just was the best fit for me in all aspects.
