The Haworth Lady Lions may still be shaping their identity this season, but one thing is already clear: Anaya Gragg brings a steady presence that her teammates can count on. The sophomore guard approaches each game with a simple, personal mission — “to stay positive even through bad games.” That mindset guides everything she does.
Anaya says this year’s team is still adjusting with new players and freshmen, but the foundation is forming fast. “We are still figuring out the morale of the team this year… but what I would say it is right now would be that we are trying to play better as a team and have better communication skills with one another.” And that communication, she says, has already become their biggest area of growth. “Better communication skills on the court.”
Winning more games is the collective target, and they’re committed to earning it the right way. “To win more games than last year and we are working to achieve that by practicing and improving as a team.”
Anaya’s role as a point guard demands composure, awareness, and quick reads — all things she takes seriously. When she’s analyzing a matchup, she focuses first on “the level on ball-handling skills the girl has.” Her ability to move on quickly from mistakes is one of her strengths: “Knowing how to let a bad game go and going into the next game with a positive attitude.”
Her pregame prep is simple and calm: “Music, staying focused and trying to keep a good attitude.” And once she steps on the court, her mentality sharpens. “Always play hard and try your best and want to win.”
Anaya hopes her time at Haworth leaves a meaningful impression. She wants to be remembered as “a good player that always tried to keep a positive mindset and attitude even when it was hard to.”
Her favorite memories come from road trips because “my team is very good about finding the joy in little things even if it is just where coach takes us to eat after a game.” The fun never stops — “There is never a dull moment with us.”
And her future plans are already set: “I plan to go to college and become a physical therapist to help injured athletes.”
