Over the course of the past year, so much has happened, and it’s truly been a whirlwind of emotions and experiences. I started the year uncertain about whether my college career would be my final season or if I would decide to turn professional. Fast forward to now, and I find myself reflecting on the completion of my first professional season, with so much having transpired in between.

Whether it was making it to the national championship game or helping the Indiana Fever make it back to the playoffs for the first time since 2016, I have so much to be proud of. The entire journey has been so fast-paced that it’s been hard to truly appreciate or grasp the magnitude of it all in the moment. But now that I have the chance to look back, it’s been fun to reflect on everything that has happened and to acknowledge the significance of these milestones.

Along the way, I’ve gained a deeper awareness of the impact I have on others, particularly the fans. I’m often moved by the signs and messages fans hold up during games, especially the ones from young girls and boys who have traveled great distances to see me play. Some even say they’re attending the game as a birthday gift or something special from their families. It really puts everything into perspective and reminds me of the true significance of what I do.

There’s something incredibly humbling about knowing that people are spending their time, energy, and money to witness you play the sport you love, and I don’t take that lightly. It’s not just about the game itself but the connection I’m able to foster with my fans, which is something that continues to inspire me to work hard and give my best on the court.