By Hayden Swope

Myka Deronett of Minneapolis has always leaned on basketball as a comfort sport, but for a long time, the career was a little rocky for her.

“Basketball has always been my favorite sport,” Deronett said. “As a kid, I did not get to play very often because I was not very good. I fouled out of almost every game and generally did not understand the sport. Going into highschool, I wanted to improve my skills, so I could play varsity.”

After years of watching from the sideline, Deronett knew that high school would be her time to shine.

“I knew as a freshman that I had no chance of being on varsity, but I wanted to prove to myself that I could get to that level at some point, even if it was not in that season,” Deronett said. “I worked hard to improve my skills, and eventually, I earned myself a spot my sophomore year. I used to play for myself, but my experience on varsity showed me that I would rather play for my team.”

While getting that starting spot on varsity has to be a proud memory, one of Deronett’s favorites moments is the ones she spends with her teammates.

“The most memorable moments happen in the locker room,” Deronett said. “Overall, we all bond really well with each other. But one of my most favorite things we do is pray before every game. We stand in a circle, hold hands, bow our heads, and pray the Lord’s Prayer. I feel like the prayer is our way of getting rid of the nerves before a game, and it is a really cool moment that we share.”

Deronett has big plans for after graduation, including furthering her education and beliefs.

“I plan to attend Oral Roberts University to study Accounting and minor in Praise and Worship Leadership,” Deronett said. “I also want to be part of the ORU praise and worship team as a pianist.”