Jaslene “Jas” Garcia-Howell has spent her high school career carving out a path defined by dedication, grit, and a love for competition. A senior at Pawnee High School, she’s a three-sport athlete, excelling in basketball, softball, and golf, and she carries a clear vision for her future: to continue playing at a higher level after high school.
From the start, Jaslene’s journey has been shaped by the people closest to her. Her parents, her older sister Sara, and her coach Richard Spears have been constants in her life, offering guidance, encouragement, and accountability. Sara, in particular, has been a role model, showing Jaslene what hard work, discipline, and sacrifice look like, and inspiring her to chase her own goals with the same focus. Coach Spears, who has guided Jaslene since her Little League days, has left a lasting mark not just in sports but in life, teaching lessons that go far beyond the court.
For Jaslene, success isn’t just about natural talent; it’s about effort. She believes in putting in extra time and energy outside of scheduled practices, honing skills, and building confidence that translates into game-time performance. That work ethic has paid off in unforgettable moments. One of her earliest highlights came as a freshman, when her team defied the odds to win a spot in the area tournament for the first time in seven years, narrowly defeating Rejoice Christian 38-35. Later, she reached a personal milestone by scoring 1,000 career points in basketball, and now she’s set her sights on another goal: 1,000 rebounds.
Competition drives Jaslene, and she particularly enjoys facing rivals like Newkirk, whose student section and on-court intensity make victories especially satisfying. Practices are just as meaningful, and she values teammates like Suriya Sewell, whose style and skills challenge her and help build chemistry for game day.
Beyond athletics, Jaslene stays active with Beta Club, FCCLA, NPIC, and Yearbook, mastering the balance of school, sports, and extracurricular commitments through careful planning and time management. Representing Pawnee High is more than wearing the uniform; it’s a source of pride. In a tight-knit community that supports every season, Jaslene strives to make her town proud while doing what she loves, leaving her mark both on and off the court.
