RAYLEIGH TURNER often finds herself struggling in school. While basketball comes easy for her, school can sometimes be difficult. It’s not because she doesn’t try. She makes the honor roll but it requires a lot of hard work and dedication.
On the court, the 5’7, 2025 PG from Arkansas is able to see the floor and read plays. In the classroom, she has to work twice as hard because she has dyslexia.
Dyslexia is a learning disorder that involves difficulty reading due to problems identifying speech sounds and learning how they relate to letters and words.
Says Turner, “A lot of people make fun of me, I use that to push me on the court.”
Even though she has had to deal with people teasing her, basketball has helped her make friends with players she’s met through AAU. The game has taught her to have a good attitude on and off the court because she never knows who’s watching and looking up to her.
While she’s thinking about who she’s inspiring, she’s inspired by her brother Bubby. Bubby has special needs and his sister holds a special place in his heart. On days when he’s not feeling well, he still attends her games and cheers her on.
Despite the obstacles that Turner has had to face, she’s resilient and strong.
“Girls shouldn’t let anyone tell them that they can’t do something,” said Turner.