MY STORY

from courtsideto courts worldwide

I've wanted to be a professional basketball player for as long as I can remember. The seed of that dream was planted the day my parents took me to my first New York Liberty game when I was six years old.

At the time, I had just decided soccer wasn't for me. I wasn't much of an outdoorsy person, and as a self-proclaimed snack girl, the post-game orange slices were my arch-nemeses. So, I hung up my cleats and found my way to the hardwood.

I don't remember much about the game itself, except being completely captivated by the Liberty's star player, Cappie Pondexter. Watching her compete with confidence, skill, and determination made me an instant fan.

But surprisingly, it wasn't just watching Cappie play that solidified my dream; it was a trip to the concession stand.

Alongside the usual snacks, the arena offered custom Liberty jerseys with your name on the back. I couldn't wait for mine to be finished so I could wear it before the game ended. I imagined one day wearing a jersey with my own name on it, not as a fan, but as a professional basketball player.

I left the arena with something much more important than a souvenir. I left with a dream that has guided me ever since.

To this day, that jersey still hangs in my room as a constant reminder to keep dreaming big and to remember just how far I've come from that little girl sitting in the stands.

That dream has taken me across the world, from high school championships and collegiate success at Stanford and Notre Dame to being drafted into the WNBA and building a professional career competing internationally. Along the way, I've learned that success isn't just about what happens on the court; it's about resilience, leadership, continuous growth, and using your platform to inspire others.

Today, my mission extends beyond basketball. Through mentorship, speaking, and Dodson Diaries, I hope to encourage the next generation to pursue their own dreams with courage, purpose, and authenticity.