Leavittsburg, OH —Lebrae High School sophomore Riley Rowe might only be in her second year, but she’s alreadymaking waves both on and off the basketball court. In an exclusive interview with YSN, Rowe shared her experiences and aspirations with host Anthony Hartwig.

“Even when my shots aren’t falling, I always find other ways to contribute,” said Rowe, who spoke about the team’s motto, “Raise the Bar,” and their focus on improving defensively. This mindset clearly reflects how she balances different aspects of her life, from sports to academics.

Riley hails from an athletic family that epitomizes support and competition. Her mother, who is also her head coach, and her father, a former professional basketball player, have been pivotal in shaping her athletic discipline. “I love having my mom as a coach. She’s like one of our friends,” Rowe mentioned. Regarding her father, she added, “I know I can trust what he says because he played professionally. However, Riley’s accolades don’t just end at the basketball court. She’s also deeply committed to her studies. “I’ve always loved school. I’m in a CCP class that’s pretty challenging, but I love English and math,” Rowe commented. As she navigates her sophomore year, she continues to refine her time management skills, a vital life lesson that will undoubtedly serve her well.

Outside of her hectic schedule, Riley enjoys crafting, especially using resin to create glittery pens and keychains, and she loves shopping at Target. Her artistic side extends to making homemade gifts for friends and family, from paper ornaments as a child to more sophisticated crafts now. With the holidays around the corner, Riley shared her festive favorites, including the film “Christmas with the Cranks” and the song “Santa Tell Me” by Ariana Grande. This year, a karaoke machine tops her Christmas wish list, hinting at yet another of her talents – singing.

Closing the interview, Riley took the opportunity to express gratitude. “First, I just want to thank God because I wouldn’t be able to do anything without Him. My family has always supported me, and my teammates are like my best friends,” she said. Riley Rowe is undoubtedly a name to watch, embodying a blend of drive, talent, and gratitude that sets her apart. As she continues to “Raise the Bar,” both on the court and in life, the future looks exceptionally bright for this young athlete.

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