Ava Davis:Athlete Q&A

Davis goes for a shot during a game vs Grand Rapids Christian a few weeks ago. She's been playing for nine years. Photo courtesy of Tom Reynolds.

What sport and position do you play?

I play basketball, I’m a utility player which means I can play every single position at any given point, but I’m mostly a shooting guard or power forward.

How long have you been playing?

I’ve been playing since the first or second grade, so about 9-10 years.

What motivates you?

My motivation is success because I want to one day look back at my young self and be like ‘wow I’m really here’, and by ‘here’ I mean making great money, working as an orthopedic surgeon or endocrinologist, have a beautiful family of my own and just being at my happiest point in life. A few more motivations are my family, friends and other people who are important to me because I want to be able to show them how talented I am and that I have the greatest potential.

What was your best season? Why?

I would say my best season so far would be this one right now. Besides all of the team issues we’ve had, I’ve been more into my game and playing as myself and getting some for myself and others.

Why did you decide to start playing the sport you do?

It actually wasn’t a decision for me really, my parents always wanted us to get out there more so they were the ones who got me to play the sport but I so happened to just fall in love with the game along the way.

What is the ultimate goal you can imagine related to your sport?

I would say the ultimate goal is to make it into a great college where I’m able to compete and continue having the fun that I am now.

What have been your biggest achievements in athletics?

I would say the greatest accomplishment so far in my athletics was when my AAU team took 1st place in the Windy City class, which was one of the biggest tournaments.

How do you think coaches can be more effective?

I feel like coaches can be more effective by pushing you to your full potential and not letting you sell yourself short but I’m not talking about being absolutely hard on you to the point where you lose your love for the game, just push you to what you can take and to also be there for you through other things besides basketball and academics.

What are your main strengths in your sport? 

I’m a leader, and everytime I get on that court I’m looking to do better than before. I have a very strong drive and work my hardest. When it comes to the sport I’d say I’m strong in every aspect, it’s what I train for.

What do you need to improve?

One weakness that I will admit has affected me a bit was my attitude, I tend to beat myself up quite a bit.

What do you like about training?

I love training because it gives me a chance to get on the floor and improve myself more and more, which is what gets me closer to reaching my goal of playing in college.

What do you dislike about training?

Something I don’t like about training is simply the fact that it takes up all my free time, I’m between a schedule of school and work, I don’t get to do much for fun anymore.

Who are your biggest inspirations?

My greatest inspirations are my grandpa Sova, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant and Allen Iverson.