Tamara McConnell 

Writer

Finding inspiration one game at a time, senior basketball player Lanie Leach has developed confidence and long-standing friendships throughout her involvement in Marlow High School basketball.

Having been a member of the Marlow High School girls’ basketball team for four years, Leach has played in multiple positions from the offensive-based point guard to the agility-based shooting guard.

When asked what she has gained from being a member of the girls’ basketball team, Leach highlighted her newfound energy in leading others.

“Basketball has most definitely made me a better leader,” Leach said. “Basketball has not only made me realize that I have a passion for leading others, it has also made me realize that if I want to be a leader, I have to work with others.”

As a seasoned athlete among the team, Leach has learned the ins and outs of being a basketball player and shared some advice for underclassmen.

“Always work your hardest,” Leach said. “Working your hardest shows the coach that you have the willingness to work for the spot you want and that you won’t give up. A coach always looks for the willingness to be a coachable player. “

Watching her grow first-hand as both a person and an athlete throughout her basketball career, Assistant Coach Julie Turner described Leach as an eager student who supports and motivates others.

“She works so hard at everything she does and is very compassionate,” Turner said. “She genuinely cares about others. Lanie has so much heart, such great work ethic, and is always positive and encouraging towards everyone.”

Creating a strong name amongst her teammates as a hard-working and energetic player, Leach has inspired many of the underclassmen on the girls’ basketball team such as sophomore guardsman Marlow Latimer.

With a front-row seat at experiencing Leach’s positivity, Latimer went on to describe how Leach has inspired the team with her spirit and passionate leadership.

“Lanie has not only inspired me by being a leader on and off of the basketball court, but she is also hard-working at everything she does,” Latimer said. “She is honest, kind, determined and is constantly pushing me to do my best. She always has positive words, and I know she will continue to support not only me, but the entire team as well.”

Leach plans to take her determination to the University of Oklahoma, where she aspires to graduate with a doctorate in a Pre-Med program and pursue medical school to become an orthopedic surgeon.