In the game of basketball, everyone has an important role. But for Bartlesville High School junior Grace McPhail, her role as point guard for the Bartlesville Bruins is a critical one.

Many basketball experts and coaches consider the role of point guard as one of the most important players, if not the most important player on the team. Point guards are expected to run the team’s offense by controlling the ball and making sure that it gets to the right player at the right time. Above all, the point guard must understand and accept their coach’s game plan; in this way, the position can be compared to a quarterback in football. They must also be able to adapt to what the defense is allowing and must control the pace of the game.

The level of dedication to the sport can be witnessed by how long Grace has played basketball. She has played the sport since 3rd Grade.

When asked what her favorite part of playing basketball is, Grace stated, “My favorite part is getting better and seeing improvement and also being able to play with my best friends it’s really fun.”

Grace’s coach has the following to say about her, “Grace is a quiet leader and solid defender. A floor general who sets the tone for our offense and a strong finisher at the rim. She started multiple games for us at point guard last year and is part of our returning guard-core.”

Grace has many favorite memories when it comes to being a point guard, but there are two that stand out the most for her. Grace recalled, “My favorite memory is being apart of the Carl Albert Basketball Tournament and being able to have fun with my team.”

In terms of who has inspired her the most thus far, Grace looks to leadership and her team, Grace stated, “I look up to my trainer Antonio a lot – he influences me every day and is the reason I’m still playing today. All my teammates and coaches inspire and push me each day to be a better player.”

In terms of academics, Grace stated, “My favorite subject is math.”

After graduating from high school, Grace plans on pursuing higher education. She proclaimed, “I plan to go to college and I would love to play basketball somewhere if I get the opportunity.”

Outside of the basketball court, Grace stated, “I like hanging out with my friends when I’m not playing basketball.”