Meet Nizi Nares, a new senior at Loretto Academy.

She currently plays for the Angels’s varsity basketball team.

When did you start playing?

“I started playing when I was 6 years-old, but first I literally tried all the sports you can imagine.

I tried ballet, gymnastics, tennis, soccer, softball, hip hop, and swimming but nothing really made me feel the way basketball does.”

What is your favorite thing about playing basketball?

“My favorite thing about playing basketball is all the experiences and trips I have had.

I love how playing this sports allows you to have friends from all around the world. Another great thing is the places I’ve visited thanks to basketball.

It feels amazing to go to different places in the country and do what you love. The friendships basketball has given me are for sure one of the nest ones I’ve had.”

What keeps you motivated?

“My family keeps me motivated, especially my mom.

She has been there since the beginning, taking me to allay practices and games, being my personal coach.

I want to make her proud. My brother also keeps me motivated because I want to be an inspiration to him, I want him to look up and have someone to keep him motivated.

My dad has always believed in me, since I was in kindergarten when I felt like quitting, he was there.”

What’s your favorite basketball memory?

“My favorite basketball memory is when I got called to the Mexican National team, I cried when my coach gave me the news.

It was my lifelong dream and having it come real was something unbelievable.

I had the opportunity to practice with girls older than me that were the best from all over the country.

It was a great learning opportunity. I spent two weeks in CNAR, which is where all the best athletes of Mexico get ready for international competitions.

What does being a teammate mean to you?

“For me, being a teammate means being there for your team, being a leader and supporting them during hard times.

It means you know you’ll have someone to get help from and they’ll have someone to get help from.

Being a good teammate is everything to have a successful team.”

Who is your basketball role model?

My dad. I remember being six years-old and going to all of his games.

He has always been the best basketball player in the world to me.

I love the way he never gives up and the passion he plays with.

He is 45 and still playing, he has a love for the game that I have never seen in another player.”

The team is blessed to welcome Nizi to the team and look forward to the rest of the season!