By Derrick Smith

Every athlete will agree that practice is an important part of becoming successful. If you do not practice and prepare, you will not be ready for competition. But Baylee King says that it takes more than just practice alone.

“Staying after practice and putting in more time has been huge for me,” she said. “If you want to be your best, you have to be willing to go above and beyond and do all you can.”

King is a junior at Commerce High School, where she is a three-sport athlete for the Lady Tigers. She plays point guard and shooting guard for the basketball team, while on the softball field, she plays in the middle infield and also in the outfield. She is also a member of the school’s track team. 

Brooke Jackson, head coach of the Commerce girls basketball team, says that although Baylee is coming off of an injury, she can be an impact player for her team.

“Baylee was my best player through four games last year,” the coach said. “But she went down with an ACL tear. Returning from that injury, we look for her to be a solid player every night offensively and defensively. She has the ability to stretch defenses which will provide driving lanes for her teammates. She is also a great passer.”

King has had a number of people that have impacted her life over the years. But she says that there are a few that have had a major influence on her. 

“My parents and Coach Jackson would have to be the biggest role models for me,” she said. “My parents are always there for me and always support me. Coach Jackson pushes me to be the best that I can be and to fight through whatever is going on.”

King has made a lot of memories with her teammates. But as she reflects on her career, she says that there are a few that stand out.

“I love playing alongside my teammates,” she said. “Some of my greatest memories are winning districts, making it to the third round in regionals, and being a captain of the team.”

Along with playing sports, Baylee is also a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.