Jerica Baker enters her sophomore season on the basketball court at the crossroads of opportunity. This season she’ll be trade last year’s number-3 and begin wearing the same 00-jersey that her sister has worn. And for Jerica, it’s the opportunity to take things to an even higher level of success.

“I’ve been playing basketball since I was in the third grade and watching Aaliyah be one of the game changers on her teams,” Jerica said in describing the importance of being a positive role model, on and off the court. “Seeing her hard work and hustle motivates me to not just do the same thing, but strive to do things even better.”

To become a team leader, Jerica understands the need for communication.

“On and off the court, I have to be a listener to the needs of my teammates as well as everyone else. When you truly listen and then offer a helping hand, it creates a bond of friendship and trust that you truly care about what’s going on.”

Stepping into the spotlight carries multiple responsibilities and expectations.

“You have to prove it through your actions and your work ethic. It’s not something that can be handed to you,” Jerica confirmed. “You have to be a team builder, an encourager to others and always hustle.”

The willingness to work on her talents draws praise from the McCurtain girls’ basketball head coach.

“Jerica is a hard worker. She’s someone who puts in the extra time to become a better player everyday, said Bryan Schlekeway. “She’s very athletic and could excel in any sport she plays.”

While hustle and doing what’s expected are two parts of Jerica’s makeup, there’s another part of her DNA that she values even more.

“Being respectful is very important to me in everything I do. Being respectful to my teammates and coaches, my teachers and everyone else is something I try to accomplish on and off the court,” said Jerica. “It helps you learn and opens doors to opportunity. I have to remember…you get what you give.”

When the McCurtain Lady Bulldogs tip-off the basketball season, coaches and fans can expect Jerica Baker to be ready to make the first move by making the right choice to be a game changer for success while proving by her efforts that Character Counts.