03 Feb 2024 Julissia Young – Guy-Perkins (501 Basketball Team 2024)

Julissia Young almost walked away from basketball.

“I hurt myself during the season last year, but I decided to continue playing, not thinking it was that serious,” Young said. “In the end, it was worse than I thought. I was always in pain, and this caused me to almost give up. I made myself believe basketball was the reason I was hurt, and it caused me to start hating basketball. I eventually met Coach Alexander. We talked, and he motivated me to play this year. I eventually decided that I would give basketball another shot for my senior year.”

Young and the Lady Thunderbirds had a losing record heading into the postseason last year, but a strong run in the district and regional tournaments led to a 1A state tournament berth.

“Many felt that our team at that time wasn’t very talented,” Young said. “They didn’t think we would make it as far as we did, but we worked hard and stayed committed, which helped us make it to state. Along that journey, my teammates and I grew a special bond. I feel like I can go to them about anything, and they’ll always be there.”

Off the court, Young is a member of Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America, Beta Club and the Gifted and Talented program. At her church, she serves as the secretary for the morning service and an assistant teacher for the youth class. After high school, she plans to attend college and study physical therapy.