The Golden Days Hoop Festival featured some skilled high school basketball players from across Oklahoma. The tournament was held at Tulsa Central High School where players competed for two days.
One of the most impressive young players at the tournament was Taiona Morris. She plays an in-your-face style of defense.
We’ve had a chance to see her game develop over the years. This season, she’s playing with more confidence and she’s not showing any signs of slowing down. “My game has changed a lot since freshman year. I’ve gained a lot more confidence and I’ve learned to be coachable, said Morris.”
Morris is going to be an absolute beast for Sand Springs. She’s a guard who can defend at an elite level and offensively she plays fast and is versatile.
Despite being young, she’s embracing her role as a starter. Says Morris, “Starting varsity is a lot of pressure but that comes with the sport. I have learned to adjust to the game.”
Eimeya Galloway is a tall and bouncy player who simply makes the game look easy. She’s smooth in the open floor, has a killer jumper, and could climb even higher if she stays focused and consistent.
She’s been through a lot during her matriculation at McLain. However, her mindset and attitude towards basketball and life have changed. Prior to this season, the team didn’t have much success. “Losing for years humbled me. This year we’re proving people wrong. I’m appreciative of my coach because he believes in me and our team,” said Galloway. She leads her team in blocks and walked away with the award for the Most Outstanding Player.
Heaven Smith is a natural floor general. She’s a good playmaker, leader, and a high IQ player that knows how to score. Says Smith, “My strengths are handling the ball, making plays, and playing tough defense.”
Smith does all of the little things and is the type of player that others love playing with. As a sophomore, she’s a gifted passer and a competitor who always seems to be in the right place. Smith consistently makes plays for her team.