Pawnee High School’s Libby Turner
Pawnee senior guard Libby Turner does not have to look far to find her greatest source of inspiration. Her mom, who has spent the past year battling breast cancer, has continued to show up and support Libby throughout her final high school season, a quiet example of perseverance that Libby carries with her onto the court.
“My mom inspires me because of the adversity she has faced over the past year dealing with breast cancer and still showing up to support me during my senior year,” Turner said.
Turner is a senior at Pawnee High School, where she has grown into one of the varsity team’s most vocal leaders. She prides herself on being the teammate who keeps everyone talking, connected and in good spirits, whether it is during a tight game or a long practice. “I would consider myself as the most vocal and the one who keeps our team in good spirits,” she said.
That sense of connection is what she loves most about Pawnee basketball. Turner said she enjoys how close the team is on and off the court and believes that bond shows in the way they play together. “I love my team because we share a common bond of unity and connection,” she said. “I love my teammates because they’re kind, caring and supportive.”
Athletics, she said, has shaped her far beyond wins and losses. “Athletics has taught me about discipline, work ethic and dealing with adversity,” Turner said. “I feel like I am a better person being a part of a team learning how to communicate, share responsibilities and developing strong relationships.”
In the classroom, Turner’s favorite subject is English, and she lists Mr. Pratt as her favorite teacher. Away from school and basketball, she enjoys spending time with her boyfriend, Aiden. On game days, her routine includes listening to music, making a TikTok with teammate Brooklyn and then heading out to play.
Turner, who calls Michael Jordan the greatest basketball player of all time, knows there is always someone who can get the best of you in a quick game of pig. “If I was to play pig, Jaslene would beat me,” she said with a smile.
