East Palestine used to have a secret weapon.  A young, powerful, basketball savvy post-forward who can shake and bake down low, or dispose of her defender at will with her skill and determination.

Now- East Palestine has a well-known weapon.  Junior, Jaliyah Mixon has been through it all, seemingly.  She’s battled adversity in her personal life to which she’s overcome and shined on the other side, and uses her experience as stepping stones to where she wants to be.  Mixon is now looked to as a leader and a catalyst on this team, and as she goes, so do the Bulldogs.  Opposing coaches prepare for “21.”

PHOTO CREDIT: Contributor Photo

Through all the adversity and accolades, Jaliyah prides herself on becoming a role model in the community and being able to look into the stands on game night with young eyes peering back at her, confident that she is getting things done on, and off the court.  According to Coach Franklin, Mixon has had to change the way she plays.  “She’s gone from getting a rebound and taking it down to the other end by herself, to passing to our guards and working her way into the paint, which opens up more opportunities for the team,” said Franklin.

Mixon’s growth as a student-athlete has also come in the classroom along with the hardwood.  Jaliyah attributes her success to a couple of her teachers who have helped her along the way, including one that serves as a coach in the stands.

All of this leads to our East Palestine Basketball Player Profile for the Week: MIXON THINGS UP!

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