McKenzie Mathurin is a name you’ll want to remember. The 5’9 combo guard just started her 8th-grade year and her name is already buzzing in the ears of college coaches. Her maturity on the court makes it hard to believe that she’s only thirteen years old. Despite the growing attention, she’s humble and manages to stay levelheaded.
Says Mathurin, “When I look back I just want to be able to say that I gave the game everything. I’m still young but I hope for the best.”
Good things are happening in her life, but the best is yet to come. If Mathurin stays locked in, she will have an impeccable future. Prior to picking up a basketball, Mathurin tried several different sports. She’s not ashamed to say that she wasn’t good at any of them. But everything happens for a reason. She has now found her calling.
Mathurin has a deep knowledge of the game and a sharp eye for detail. She credits her mother for her exemplary basketball IQ. “I watch film with my mom until midnight. I want to make my mom proud of me, said Mathurin.
But there’s no pressure. McKenzie chose to play the game on her own.
When she talks about her mom she lights up. There is an unconditional love there that expands deeper than the game of basketball. However, the game has strengthened their bond.
AMBER MATHURIN believes that basketball has given her the opportunity to teach her daughter life lessons through the game that they both love. Says Mathurin, “I want to teach her respect, integrity, and what it means to be a good friend. Basketball is just a bridge for me to be apart of her journey and teach her life skills along the way.”
Both of McKenzie’s parents played collegiate basketball. Her father, Chris Mathurin played professional basketball in England.
When it’s all said and done, her parents want her to do what makes her happy. Says her mom, “I don’t want her to look back and have any regrets. I want McKenzie to be fearless and bold.”
Mckenzie embodies all of those characteristics and more. When it comes to her game, she’s confident and unapologetic. “I’m not offended by the phrase “Play like a girl” because I am a girl. I love showing other girls how powerful they can be on the court,” said Mathurin.