A’mya Everette understands that every second on the court is a blessing. It’s an understanding that was built out of forced time away. 

Before her sophomore year, Everette injured her ACL during a practice, forcing her off the court for almost a year. 

“The rehab process took seven months of very hard therapy,” Everette said. “The hardest part of all of it was getting mentally and physically ready to play basketball again. It was also hard putting in extra work trying to get better all over again. 

“I want to encourage student athletes that when times get tough to not give up. I never gave up when I was out for a whole season because of my ACL surgery. The work will play off in the long run.”

Everette, a senior forward for Morrilton, was selected to this year’s 501 Basketball Team — 41 players representing the best the 501 has to offer both on and off the court. The team is sponsored by Conway Regional Health System, First Security Bank and Conway Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Center. The senior was nominated by her head coach, Carin McNabb.

“A’mya is a hard worker and explosive jumper,” McNabb wrote in her nomination. “Coming back off her ACL injury, she worked back into shape with great effort. She has worked really hard to get back to her old self.

“She’s a great defender, rebounder and strong inside presence.”

After falling in the 4A North regional last season, Morrilton (8-4, 1-0) is off to a great start as 4-4A conference play has tipped off. Everette is relatively new to basketball, having only played the last six years. McNabb was a big influence in getting Everette involved on the court. Years of hard work later, the senior is glad she gave basketball a chance.

“[Coach McNabb] always talked to me about playing basketball,” Everette said. “[After high school], I plan to continue my education and hopefully play college basketball.”

Morrilton returns to conference play Friday against Dardanelle. Everette likes Morrilton’s chances in a tough 4-4A conference, which includes the Clarksville Lady Panthers, who made it to the 4A state tournament last season. 

“Our goal is to be conference champs,” Everette said. “I’m working to get better after every game I play. It’s a teamwork game. You can’t be selfish, and it’s not all about you. I try to always stay positive and to be constantly learning because there is always room for growth.”

The Morrilton Lady Devil Dogs return to action playing host to Dardanelle at 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 3.