Emily Estrada

Alyssa Maldonado practices shooting drills during practice.

The Wolfpack Girls Basketball season has yet to begin, but a spirited player has already begun to put in the time and dedication to make it her best season ever. Alyssa Maldonado is a junior and a returning varsity player on the team.

Ever since she was young, Maldonado has participated in basketball park leagues and travel ball teams. Alongside the many teams Maldonado has played for, she has also received additional help from her father. Coach Manuel is Maldonado’s father and one of the current coaches for the Wolfpack Girls Basketball team. With the support of her loving father and coach, Maldonado has grown as an individual and a team player, allowing her to become the leader she is today. 

Her fiery passion for the sport is due to the amount of motivation she has received from her family. Her father has also noticed her persistent effort to bring her family great joy while watching her play. “She tries to show out more because she knows we’re watching; she’s just trying to make us proud,” Coach Manuel said. 

Undoubtedly, Maldonado has a few expectations for herself and for her teammates. “I don’t expect them to be the best or anything, but just expecting them to try and have some sort of drive is something I’d hope all of them have,” she said. Maldonado would also like to win the Southern League or possibly win the CIF championships for a 4th time.  

However, this season Maldonado has a different reason for her dedication. The recent passing of her grandfather has been a key factor in her motivation to keep going. “So this year is all for him, everything that I’ve done and am going to do will be dedicated towards him,” Maldonado said. 

Maldonado’s grandfather has been by her side since she was young and supported her whether it was through sports or a caring affection. His love for sports influenced her growing interest in basketball and her determination to bring him a prominent joy. 

Maldonado soon took notice of the way her grandfather spoke of her, with such admiration and pride. She saw how much he really cherished her no matter what, always making sure to show her off whenever he could. “Last year I didn’t feel like a star and now that he’s gone, I have to make his words true,” Maldonado said.

Throughout this upcoming season, Maldonado will be dedicating every aspect to her grandfather. Every performance this season will be to honor him, making him proud will always be a top goal for her. She will put her full effort into making him proud and honoring his name.