LA FERIA — If one ever asks La Feria’s Myah Salas how long she’s been playing basketball, the answer will be simple: A long time.
For as long as the junior cager can recall, she was always at her parents side watching, learning and studying the game as they coached basketball travel teams.
When the time came, Salas found success of her own.
Last season as a sophomore she was named to the second team 32-4A All-District team and as a freshman was named the Sixth Man MVP.
Her skills don’t stop on the court, either, as she was also named to the district’s all-academic team as well.
Now Salas finds herself playing a vital roll in head coach Angel Martinez varsity team.
“Myah is our floor general,” he said. “She makes things happen offensively and defensively. She leads the team in assists and steals.
“I’m so glad I have her for one more year because she is a special player and great teammate.”
Salas sat down with the Valley Morning Star recently to discuss her athletic success and see what makes her tick.
Q: When did you first get interested in playing basketball and why?
A: My parents have been coaching the sport for a very long time and as a toddler I was known as the kid on my dad’s back in a toddler backpack while coaching, so I was destined to play the sport.
Q: Like most of your teammates, you play a number of sports. Which is your favorite and why?
A: Basketball is my favorite. I’ve been around the sport for as long as I can remember and I was considered a gym rat. My parents have had several travel basketball teams; the game has given me the opportunity to travel to different states and meet new people.
Q: What has been your biggest challenge up to date and how have you managed to overcome it?
A: Being a leader out on the court has been difficult at times because of my shyness. I believe that leading by example has shown my teammates what is expected.
Q: Who has had the biggest impact on your athletic career?
A: My parents for investing so much love and time on me, and God for giving me the gift of athleticism. And Coach Martinez, who believes in me and knows my capability.
Q: Where do you draw your inspiration from when you play basketball?
A: From NBA All-Stars Steph Curry, Tony Parker, Tim Duncan and WNBA star Maya Moore. They are all such great players that one day I hope to achieve the same goals as they did.
Q: What words of advice or encouragement do you have to share with younger athletes?
A: To give perfect effort at everything you do. When the opportunity is there, jump on it and don’t dwell on mistakes. The past is the past so look toward the future.
Q: Describe your most rewarding experience playing sports.
A: Making varsity as a freshman in multiple sports and being part of district championships in volleyball and basketball.
Q: What are your short-term and long-term goals?
A: My short-term goal is to excel in the classroom and help my Lionette family be successful. Long-term goals are to play at the next level, whether it be in basketball or softball and transition into a career in media photography.
Q: What is something people might not know about you?
A: Around school I’m known as quiet and shy, but around my closest friends I just let out a ball of goofiness. In my spare time, I enjoy drawing and playing video games. Plus, I’m smarter than I look.
