Family, coaches, teammates and friends gathered last Wednesday, April 23 to celebrate Jayla and Kyra Jackson’s signing ceremony in the Mineola High School gymnasium. The sisters will be attending Mid-America Christian University in Oklahoma City and playing basketball for the Evangels. 

There was a common theme behind all the comments made at the event.

Coach Tashara Stephens summed it up. “We are all honored to know you both,” she said.  

Stephens’ comments were echoed by athletic Director Luke Blackwell and head girls basketball coach Anthony McQuary. Although they each noted the competitiveness of the two, as well as their commitment and work ethic, it was really the comments about their high standards of personal character which were most meaningful.  

McQuary commented, “They are exceptionally-focused individuals and make good decisions in basketball and in life.”

Blackwell added, “There are many qualities which make people successful, these two young ladies have them all…. They are a great credit to their families.”

The sisters explained that they knew immediately that they had found their next destination in life after visiting Mid-America University.

Kyra noted, “The university is very family-oriented.” 

Jayla added, “Mineola athletics prepared us so well for this next step.”

They each expressed their gratitude to teammates, family and friends.