Young thrives in bigger role

Published 9:13 pm Saturday, December 9, 2017

King’s Fork High School’s Nylah Young was voted Suffolk News-Herald Player of the Week after posting 23 points and 13 rebounds in a win over Indian River High School.

The Lady Bulldog has already started off her junior campaign strong. Through three games, she is averaging 18.3 points per game, which leads the team. Young was glad she was able to help her team win but always feels she can play better.

“There is always room for improvement,” she said. “I never feel like I have a perfect game. I am always trying to get better. But overall, I think I had a good game.”

Email newsletter signup

Young has a bigger role for King’s Fork this year, following Amesha Miller’s graduation. A void needed to be filled by her absence, and Young knew she had to step up. Last season, Young was a big part of a King’s Fork rotation that got them all the way to the state championship game. She was selected an all-region player as well.

Nylah Young was voted Suffolk News-Herald Player of the Week after posting 23 points and 13 rebounds in a win over Indian River High School.
Caroline LaMagna Photo

The junior will be a focal point for opposing teams now but feels confident not only in herself but also in her teammates. To prepare for this season, Young ran cross country and was consistently in the gym putting up shots.

“I certainly think I am ready for a bigger opportunity,” Young said. “It will be tough some nights, but I think I can push through and do what I have to do for my team. I do have help down there in the paint with my other teammates like Lydia Goolsby.”

Young had two goals she wanted to accomplish this season. One of them was for her and her team to continue to build their chemistry with each other. The other goal was to take care of unfinished business by returning to the state title game and winning it this time around.

Her teammates play a huge part in her motivation. They are always on the same page, which gives the team a positive vibe.

“I feel like we are going to have a strong season,” Young said. “We are all working hard to get back to where we left off with that state championship. Hard work is the key.”

Her family is also a huge inspiration to her. They are always giving her tips about the game and are always hoping for her to succeed. The love she has for the game always brings an extra boost to her when she is out on the court playing.

As a junior, Young has already been hearing from colleges, including NCAA Division-I programs. There has been a lot of interest, and if Young continues her growth through her junior seasons, it could give her an opportunity to have her choice of schools to pick from when the season is over.

In her spare time, Young can be found spending time with her family. Young and the Lady Bulldogs will be in action Tuesday at home against Grassfield High School.