By Derrick Smith

No matter the sport, if the offseason work is not done, the team will not be as successful as they want. McCarthy Speakthunder says that you have to be willing to work hard if you want to achieve your goals.

“There is a lot that goes into being the best,” she said. “Practicing hard and fast, being mentally ready, and staying determined are all key to being a good athlete.”

Speakthunder is a sophomore at Pawnee High School, where she is a dual sport athlete, playing golf and also point guard for the Lady Black Bears’ basketball team. She has played basketball for nine years and loves the game now as much as she did in the beginning. 

During her career, Speakthunder has enjoyed some great moments. While they are numerous, she says that there are two that stand out as her favorite. 

“I attended the Super 64 down in Texas,” she stated. “I was in the top 10 of three-point shooters while I was there. Also in that tournament, I hit a game-winning shot. It was a great time and one that I won’t forget.”

Throughout her life, McCarthy has had numerous people that have had an influence on her. But she says that there are two professional basketball players that she looks up to the most. 

“Candace Parker and Shoni Schimmel are two role models that I have in my life,” she said. “I look up to them because they are strong women who achieved their goals through hard work. Another person that has influenced me is Mr. Pratt. He taught me the Pawnee Language and how to read it and speak it.”

Along with sports, McCarthy serves as the president of her class and is also a member of the NPIC.