Courtney Pease, a shining star at Porum High School, has created a lifestyle of growth, friendship and determination within the realm of basketball. In her journey, Coach Bobbie Wheat emerges as a guiding force. “I am really hard on myself when I feel like I don’t play to my potential,” Courtney said. “Coach Wheat is always on the side pushing me to my limits, teaching me ways to improve, and she just believes in me. She always tells me I can dominate if I believe in myself.”
Teammates, both upperclassmen and underclassmen, form an integral part of Courtney’s basketball experience. “Throughout my high school career, I have had several great upperclassmen that have pushed and supported me, and I admire each and every one of them. To be honest, even as a senior this year, I admire the underclassmen and other seniors because we push and encourage each other,” she shared.
Beyond the court, Mrs. Ledbetter stands out as a favorite teacher, providing not only academic guidance but also a supportive presence: “She really took the time to explain things and always went the extra mile to make sure everyone understood the assignments. Besides being a good teacher, she has always been the teacher I could talk to about anything and would help me on anything if I needed it.”
As the off-season unfolded, Courtney embraced a holistic approach to preparation. Engaging in softball and track post-basketball season, she maintained her physical activity, culminating in a week-long tournament in Branson. “I tried to stay active all summer just to try and stay in shape,” she noted.
Basketball, for Courtney, is a microcosm of life’s lessons: “Being involved in team sports has taught me to work hard, not only for myself but for anyone that is depending on me, and how to be a team player. Individually, it has taught me responsibility and discipline, so I can accomplish what I need to do.”
With the new season unfolding, Courtney sets her sights on ambitious goals: “This season I want to accomplish making it to play in the ‘Big House’ for State. We have been working hard all season and I know we have what it takes to get there. Individually, I want to become a better leader on and off the court. I also want to beat my personal stats from last year and become more aggressive.”
Looking forward to matchups, the game against Webbers Falls stands out as a rival showdown, steeped in competitive history. “Since my freshman year, we have been rivals in basketball,” Courtney said. ” I think it has been equally competitive for the most part each year.”
Post high school, Courtney envisions a path in higher education, aspiring to become an OBGYN sonographer.
