Athlete Profile: Makayla Belongia

With its entire starting lineup back from last season, the Gresham Community High School girls basketball team had high hopes for the winter season. Senior Makayla Belongia is one of those starters and is off to a strong start this season.

In a season-opening loss to Northland Lutheran on Dec. 4, Belongia finished the game with 14 points, four assists and three steals. She tallied 12 points and four assists in a loss to Wabeno/Laona on Dec. 15.

Through Dec. 20, Belongia had also helped the team to wins over Marion and Tigerton.

Belongia made the Central Wisconsin Conference-North Division second team as a junior. She averaged over eight points, two steals and three assists a game.

Q: When did your interest in basketball begin?

A: I started playing basketball in second grade and since then I fell in love with the game.

Q: What is your favorite part about the basketball season?

A: My favorite part of the season is always having my friends on the court with me.

Q: What has basketball taught you over the years?

A: Basketball taught me teamwork is key and always have fun.

Q: What’s the biggest key to success for your team the rest of the season?

A: Biggest key to success I would say we just need to stay working as a team and boxing out.

Q: Do you have any individual goals you hope to achieve this season?

A: Average more points and assists then I had last year.

Q: Do you have any rituals you go through before a game starts?

A: Before the game I just prepare myself and tell myself what I need to do for this game.

Q: What’s your favorite memory of competing on the Gresham girls basketball team?

A: Winning our first round of regionals last year.

Q: What are you going to miss most about high school basketball?

A: I’m going to miss the friends I made on and off the court.

Q: Favorite TV show, movie and musical artist?

A: TV show — “Riverdale.” Movie — “Wizard of Oz.” Musical artist — Billie Eilish.

Q: Name one thing about yourself that not many people know.

A: I love to draw and paint.

Q: What’s the greatest piece of advice you have ever been told?

A: Hard work always pays off.

Q: What are some things you hope to accomplish after graduating high school?

A: I hope to go to college and start my career in nursing.

AT A GLANCE

Athlete: Makayla Belongia

Sport: Girls basketball

Positions: Point guard

School: Gresham Community High School

Year: Senior