Dozens of shots go up—heavy breaths cut through the air. Hallie Schultz and MacKenzie Nollette push on before the final buzzer goes off. After four years of playing high school basketball, the two seniors have had ups and downs in their high school experience.
During Schultz and Nollette’s time playing at Hastings Senior High, they wanted to quit and often felt like leaving. Nollete, having had a difficult junior year losing her Grandpa, contemplated continuing. After four years of basketball, both girls are finishing out the final season. Schultz and Nollette have created unbreakable bonds with coaches and teammates throughout their years of playing. While winning is a big part of basketball, they have learned building relationships are more important. While they practiced in the gym, they didn’t just focus on the ball and net aspect of the game.
“It [Basketball] has taught me that you can never be perfect, you just have to get going,” Schultz said.
Schultz continues to motivate her teammates during practices when they aren’t at a hundred, and they do the same for her.
Although they will not be continuing basketball in college, the Tiger girls have made a significant impact during their last season. They inspired others, hoping teammates learn from their mistakes and appreciate small moments. Schultz motivated her teammates on and off the court; she showed up to games and cheered from the bleachers. Nollete, whether in-game or in practice, consistently shows dedication and hard work.
The new season brought a handful of challenges, starting with having a new head coach, Lance Creech. Different practice techniques were added, which were an adjustment for players who had been used to varying styles of practicing for the last three years.
“I’d say it’s going rough, definitely a lot of bumps in the road. I think the coaches are really in it this year,” Schultz said.
Although the final season has impacted them differently, they continue to stay focused and hustle through the crowded uncertainty of having a new coach.
With the memories of four years in high school basketball, both girls aren’t continuing in college but appreciate the thousands of hours they spent in the Tiger gym.
“I think I’m okay with [being done playing basketball]. There’s always a time when it is just time to be done,” Schultz said.
