Aaliyah Gayles' basketball journey began at a young age, and her talent quickly made her a standout player. Growing up in Las Vegas, Aaliyah’s passion for basketball was evident from the start. She was known for her quickness, court vision, and natural ability to lead her team. Playing primarily as a point guard, she demonstrated exceptional basketball IQ and playmaking skills. Throughout her high school career at Spring Valley High School, Aaliyah’s performances were nothing short of spectacular, as she led her team to numerous victories and caught the attention of college scouts and coaches across the country. Her combination of speed, agility, and scoring ability made her one of the most exciting young players in high school basketball.

Aaliyah’s skill set was not just limited to her offensive capabilities. She was also known for her tenacious defense, quick reactions, and ability to disrupt opposing offenses. Her leadership on and off the court earned her respect among her teammates and coaches. Aaliyah’s relentless work ethic and focus on improving her game paid off, as she earned a spot on the USA Basketball U16 team, showcasing her talents at a national level. This achievement solidified her status as one of the top high school players in the nation, and she was being looked at as a future star in collegiate basketball.

Tragically, Aaliyah’s basketball journey was interrupted by a devastating shooting incident in April 2022. At just 16 years old, she was critically injured in the shooting, which left many wondering about the future of her basketball career. Despite the physical and emotional challenges she faced, Aaliyah's resilience became a focal point of her story. While her immediate plans for playing basketball were put on hold, the sports world rallied around her, showing support for her recovery. Aaliyah’s love for the game and her determination to overcome adversity have kept her connection to basketball strong, as she continues to work toward regaining her health and her place in the sport she loves.