03 Feb 2024 Jewel Walley – Southside Bee Branch (501 Basketball Team 2024)

For Jewel Walley, basketball has been inspired by family, but this year will be different for the senior guard.

“What first drew me to basketball was watching my older brother and sisters play,” Walley said. “I was still in elementary school while they were in high school playing, so in the third grade, I decided to join the team. This year, my sister is no longer playing ball with me. She is off playing college ball. She was the team leader on the court last year, and now that she’s not here, all the pressure is on my shoulders. I know the team, my coach, my parents and the school are all counting on me to do what needs to be done.”

Walley earned all-conference in her junior season.

“Jewel did a great job last year stretching defenses with her outside shooting,” said Southside Bee Branch Head Coach Mandy Goodwin. “Jewel is a sharpshooter with the ability to put the ball on the floor and get to the rim. Her length also causes difficulty for opposing teams. I am looking for Jewel to play a huge role in leadership on the court while carrying the majority of our scoring load and defending both guards and posts.

“Jewel is a positive leader who encourages others who may be struggling. She is a hard worker in the classroom. She is an unselfish player who wants what is best for the team. She works hard on the floor and pushes others to do the same.”