01 Mar 2026 Ava Sullivan – Quitman (501 Basketball Team 2026)

Ava Sullivan is no stranger to winning. A state champion in both track and cross-country, she’s now focused on bringing Quitman its first basketball title in nine years. “Our plan is to win state,” she said. “It hasn’t been done at Quitman since 2017 and we want to be the next ones to get it done.”

A recent knee injury has forced the All-Conference standout to lead her team in new ways. “I am working as hard as I can to come back before our season is over,” Sullivan said. “I plan to do everything I can to help my team get to where we need to be and leave the rest to God.”

Head Coach Timothy Hooten sees that determination every day. “Ava’s strong leadership and faith have helped her grow into one of our most-respected team members,” he said. “Through great work ethic and her ability to hold her teammates accountable, she leads by example in everything she does.” 

Sullivan’s impact extends beyond the court. The senior is deeply involved in Quitman’s holiday outreach efforts. “Ava has been involved with the team project of feeding families Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners,” Hooten said. “The girls buy, prepare, cook and deliver a full meal to two in-need families along with providing gifts at Christmas for Angel Tree.”

After graduation, Sullivan plans to study radiology at the University of Central Arkansas. “Be confident in yourself and your teammates,” she said. “Trust God and work your absolute hardest at everything you do.”