03 Feb 2024 Eli Riggs – Heber Springs (501 Basketball Team 2024)

Eli Riggs is no stranger to adversity. As Heber Springs continues to rebuild its basketball culture, the senior guard understands the importance of being a positive role model for his underclassmen.

“I want to be remembered as someone who helped change the trajectory of Heber Springs basketball for the better,” he said. “I also want to be remembered for being the best example I could have been as a Christ follower.”

“Eli’s best qualities on the court are his toughness, his voice as a leader and his ability to create offense for his teammates,” Heber Springs Head Coach Trusten DeSoto said. “This season, I expect him to continue to lead by example through his work ethic and his play as our point guard.”

On and off the court, Riggs’ faith is a driving force in everything he does.

“After high school, I want to go into ministry,” he said. “My family and I are heavily involved with CALL of Cleburne County, which focuses on recruiting and equipping local foster families. My family has adopted four kids who came through foster care here in Heber Springs. Since I’m the oldest of six kids, my parents rely on me pretty frequently to help with my younger siblings.”

Riggs hopes his story will inspire other student-athletes to never give up when the going gets tough.

“My faith in God has gotten me through adversity,” he said. “Don’t base your success off someone else’s. Everyone’s timing is different, and everyone’s path is different.”