Aubrey Hightower, a student at Broken Bow High School with a passion for the game of basketball, has woven a unique academic and athletic journey. Her roots in the sport trace back to the age of eight, inspired by none other than her father, a guiding figure who imparted the intricacies of the game.
As a student-athlete, Aubrey seamlessly navigates the intersection of academics and athletics. “Balancing my schoolwork and sports has never really been a problem for me. I get what I need to get done for school, and from there, I’m in the gym working on my game.”
In the tapestry of Aubrey’s high school sports career, a standout moment emerges—the sweet taste of victory in the Talihina tournament, where she clinched her first all-tournament trophy during her sophomore year. The journey, however, hasn’t been without its challenges. Aubrey recounts her freshman year, a period marked by difficulty. Yet, through hard work over the summer and the unwavering support of coaches and family, she transformed those challenges into steppingstones for growth.
Being part of a team has been instrumental in shaping Aubrey’s character. “Working together as a team has developed a lot of skills and personal growth. We all push each other to get better and learn from each other’s mistakes,” she shared, underscoring the collaborative spirit that defines her team.
In the pre-game rituals that set the stage for her performances, Aubrey turns to music as a source of focus and motivation.
Behind every successful athlete is a coaching team that plays a pivotal role in their development. For Aubrey, coach Toby Bean stands as a beacon of belief, instilling confidence even in the face of adversity. Additionally, Coach Smith, a mentor since sixth grade, has been a constant guide on Aubrey’s basketball odyssey, offering insights and pathways for improvement.
With her eyes set on the future, Aubrey envisions college as the next chapter in her journey. “My plans after high school are to go to college and continue my basketball career,” she said, signifying a commitment to furthering both her academic and athletic pursuits.