News Summary

The Milton, Georgia community honored basketball star Maya Dodson as her jersey number #15 was retired during a moving ceremony at St. Francis High School. The event celebrated her remarkable journey, from winning state titles to representing the U.S. in international competitions. Attendees, including family and friends, shared in the pride as Dodson’s jersey was raised in a heartfelt tribute. As a role model, Dodson inspires future generations, embodying the spirit of determination both on and off the court.

Milton, Georgia: A Night to Remember for Maya Dodson

The community of Milton, Georgia, recently celebrated a heartwarming moment as former basketball star Maya Dodson had her jersey number, #15, officially retired during a grand ceremony at St. Francis High School. This event was a fitting tribute to a young woman whose journey through the world of basketball has been nothing short of legendary.

A Packed Auditorium

The auditorium was buzzing with excitement as current students, family members, friends, and media gathered to witness this significant milestone in Dodson’s career. As she took in the atmosphere, her joy was palpable, marking a remarkable achievement in her life. Everyone in attendance could feel the warmth and pride radiating from her as she reflected on her impactful journey.

Dominance on the Court

Maya Dodson carved her name in the records at St. Francis by leading her basketball team to back-to-back state titles in Women’s 1A in 2015 and 2016. She turned a lot of heads with her skills, with the highlight of her high school career being an unforgettable steal that led to a game-winning buzzer-beater during the 2015 state title game. That moment is etched in the memories of not just her, but of everyone who witnessed it.

A Coach’s Pride

During her three years at St. Francis, Dodson played under the guidance of head coach Aisha Kennedy, who praised her dedication and hard work. The impressive commitment that Dodson exhibited during her time on the court was a testament to her character and work ethic – qualities that set her apart not just as a player but as a leader.

Going Beyond Basketball

Notably, Dodson wasn’t just an athlete; she was also a standout student. As the valedictorian of her class, she demonstrated that excellence extends beyond the basketball court. Her talent took her to national stages, where she earned a spot on the McDonald’s All-American team and captained the U-17 Team USA at the FIBA World Championships, securing a bronze medal.

Scholarship Success

Dodson’s basketball prowess earned her scholarships to two prestigious women’s basketball programs: Stanford and Notre Dame. At both institutions, she thrived, culminating in her recognition as 2nd Team All-ACC during her final year at Notre Dame. After completing her education, Dodson entered the professional arena.

A New Chapter in the WNBA

Maya’s basketball journey took another exciting twist when she was drafted 26th overall in the 2022 WNBA Draft by the Phoenix Mercury. Today, she proudly represents the Minnesota Lynx, showcasing her talent on a grander stage and inspiring a new generation of athletes.

The Sentimental Ceremony

At the ceremony, the anticipation built as Dodson’s jersey was raised in the auditorium to a standing ovation. While it will eventually be moved to the rafters of the gym, seeing it displayed initially in this special setting struck a nostalgic chord for her family and supporters. Her twin brother, Trent Dodson, described the moment as “magical,” truly encapsulating the emotions swirling throughout the event.

A Role Model for Future Generations

Maya also took the opportunity to express her aspirations of being a role model for younger athletes. She cherishes the idea of instilling hope and inspiration in those who look up to her, emphasizing how important it was for her to have role models in her own life growing up.

A Full-Circle Celebration

The ceremony represented a full-circle moment for Maya Dodson, highlighting not just her impressive legacy at St. Francis, but also her potential impact on aspiring athletes everywhere. It’s clear to all that what she has achieved is beyond mere statistics; it’s about the hearts she’s touched along the way. Here’s to Maya Dodson, a true superstar, continuing to shine brightly in the world of basketball and beyond!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

Additional Resources