Get to Know Me

1. My Journey as an Athlete

I was born on January 10, 2001, in Carson, California, and graduated from Long Beach Poly in 2019. Right after high school, I committed to Santa Clara University, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Communications while playing Division I basketball.

My early college years were filled with challenges — some games I played, others I didn’t. I faced the emotional ups and downs that come with inconsistent playing time and fighting for a spot. But the biggest challenge came my junior year, when I tore my ACL in the last game of the season. That injury required surgery and began a long road to recovery.

I entered the transfer portal with hope for a fresh start, but learned firsthand how competitive and uncertain that process can be — especially coming off an injury. I committed to the University of Montana, but found myself far from home and struggling to feel like myself.

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2. Setbacks, Growth, and Finding Purpose

Eventually, I returned home to finish my career at Cal State University, San Bernardino. Playing in front of my family, I was finally playing the best basketball of my life. But once again, my season was cut short by another devastating injury — and that one broke me in a different way.

I fell into a deep depression. I felt lost, unsure of who I was without basketball, and uncertain about my future. That period of darkness pushed me to confront not just my physical recovery, but my identity and mental health as well.

It was during those tough moments that something bigger started to form — the realization that so many athletes go through the same thing, and often in silence.

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3. The Birth of Hope Healing & Wellness

In the middle of my own pain, I found my purpose. I created the Hope Healing & Wellness Foundation to be a source of support for athletes whose dreams have been disrupted by injury or adversity.

Our foundation exists to let athletes know: you are not alone. We provide mental health support, financial literacy education, and a strong community for young people who are trying to find their next step after sports. Whether you’re healing from injury, battling depression, or simply figuring out who you are beyond the game. We’re here to walk with you.

Your story doesn’t end when the game does. In fact, it might be the beginning of something greater.