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Justine Aguilar prepares for the first day of basketball season. Photo by: Justine Aguilar
Although Senior Justine Aguilar’s time at Flour Bluff High School is nearing its end, she is ready to embrace the next chapter of her life. As one of the captains of the Flour Bluff Girls Basketball Team, Aguilar has spent the past seven years developing her skills, demonstrating leadership, and leaving a legacy that her teammates will remember long after she graduates. Her journey, both on and off the court, showcases her dedication to growth, her passion for competition, and her love for the sport.
“I like playing for FBISD because of the work ethic and just the team in general,” Aguilar said. “Every day my teammates want to get better, which makes the whole team better. That is what I really enjoy the most.”
Aguilar’s excellence in basketball recently earned her a spot on the Texas A&M University-Kingsville Women’s Basketball Team. While the idea of starting over with new teammates and increased competition may seem daunting to some, Aguilar welcomes the challenge with open arms.
“I’m excited to be a part of a team that really likes to compete to get better, and to be part of another family that cares for each other,” Aguilar said. “I am also excited for the type of competition I will be going against at the college level.”
Basketball has been more than just a sport for Aguilar—it has been a life-shaping experience. Over the years, the game has taught her discipline, teamwork, and how to balance academics with athletics. She credits basketball with helping her grow into an independent and self-aware individual who is prepared to take on life’s challenges.
“Your mental state determines how you perform in practice and games,” Aguilar said. “Basketball has shaped me by teaching me discipline and how to focus on the most important things, both on and off the court.”
(left to right) Michael, Genevieve, Justine, and Andrea, the sibblings Aguilar pose together in celebration during Justine's signing with Texas A&M Kingsville on Oct. 26, 2024. Photo by: Celeste Aguilar
As a captain, Aguilar has been a role model for her teammates, always willing to uplift and support them. Whether it’s through encouragement during a tough practice or lending a helping hand outside of school, she has made a lasting impact on those around her.
“I would want to leave behind a legacy of strong teamwork, discipline, and a commitment to both athletic and personal growth,” Aguilar said. “These qualities go beyond just winning games; they shape our character and help build a program that will keep having success in the future.”
In addition to basketball, Aguilar has also been involved in track and field since seventh grade, demonstrating her athletic versatility. While track is more of an individual sport, it has also taught her valuable lessons about perseverance and self-motivation.
Outside of athletics, Aguilar finds joy in weightlifting, a hobby she practices both independently and occasionally with friends. She describes lifting as a way to push herself beyond her limits and maintain her physical fitness.
“Weightlifting is something I mostly do by myself, but sometimes my friends will join me,” Aguilar said. “It’s a way for me to stay focused and continue challenging myself.”
Justine and Andrea Aguilar in various years showing how time has passed for them at Rockin' K Farms. Photo by: Celeste Aguilar
Aguilar’s favorite subject in school has been biology, thanks to an inspiring teacher who made learning enjoyable and accessible. She also credits coaches Gonzales and Micmimm for being significant mentors throughout her high school career.
“They’ve been there for me for a long time and really know who I am,” Aguilar said. “Their support has meant so much to me.”
Looking ahead, Aguilar plans to major in kinesiology at TAMUK, with dreams of becoming a college basketball coach. Her passion for sports and her competitive nature have fueled her desire to stay involved in athletics and help inspire the next generation.
“I chose kinesiology because I want to be around sports as much as possible and hopefully use that degree to be a college basketball coach in the future,” Aguilar said. “To help teach the next generation.”
While Aguilar is focused on her future, she also reflects fondly on her time at Flour Bluff. She cherishes the friendships she’s made, the supportive atmosphere, and the many memories she’s created.
“I’d probably say the memories I’ve made with friends and just the people I’m surrounded with have been my favorite part of attending Flour Bluff,” Aguilar said. “The atmosphere around the campus and the great people here make school easier and more enjoyable.”
As her senior year comes to a close, Aguilar has some advice for underclassmen and her peers: cherish the moment.
“I know the days are going to come slower and slower as the years go by, but my freshman year I really thought that four years was a really long time,” Aguilar said. “And look, here I am a senior. It goes by really fast, so I’d say to cherish each moment with your family and friends because high school isn’t going to last forever.”
Through her dedication to basketball, her commitment to personal growth, and her plans to inspire others, Justine Aguilar embodies the values of hard work and perseverance. As she prepares to start her next chapter at TAMUK, she leaves behind a legacy of leadership, positivity, and teamwork at Flour Bluff High School.
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