The Strong Will Survive

The guard began play in the fall of 2023 and her return to the court, marked by a standing ovation and her first three-pointer as a Trojan, symbolized her unwavering determination and courage. Gayles averaged 1.4 ppg on a veteran-laden team and helped the Trojans to the Elite Eight of the 2024 NCAA Championship.

"We are thrilled that Aaliyah is being recognized with such a prestigious award for the qualities that we see every day: her fighting spirit, belief, loyalty and incredible strength,” stated head women’s basketball coach Lindsay Gottlieb. “The Honda Awards recognize the best of the best in collegiate athletics, and AG belongs in this company. She has handled an unfathomable circumstance with unwavering faith and strength. She is a valued and important member of our USC women’s basketball team and remains an inspiration to our staff and players, as well as anyone who has the pleasure to know her. We are very proud.”