Growth is rarely loud, but for Heavener sophomore Mia Billings, it’s unmistakable. Her game has sharpened, her confidence has surged, and her goals this year are bigger than ever. As she put it, “My personal goals for this year are to make All-conference, Leflore County All-Tournament team, and average a double double.”
Heavener’s energy as a team has matched her mindset. “The team has been playing confidently in ourselves so far with great energy,” she said. That confidence is rooted in clear progress, especially with the ball. “The biggest improvement is our ball handling.”
This season, the Lady Wolves have set specific standards for themselves. “This year, our goals are to play tougher defense, and be consistent offensively,” Mia shared. “We’re working toward them by holding each other accountable in practice, focusing on fundamentals, and treating every drill and scrimmage like a game.”
Mia anchors the team inside. “I play the 5 spot, post.” Her approach to reading defenses reflects how much the game has slowed down for her. “I look for mismatches,” she said. Against a zone, “I try to find little holes in the defense to flash into… then either look to attack the rim or kick as the defense collapses.” When teams play man, she zeroes in on physical dominance: “I look to seal my girl and go to work down low as well as get involved in some pick-and-roll action.”
The physicality of her role shapes her preparation, too. “As a post player, I prepare my body to handle constant contact, physical battles in the paint, and repeated explosive movements around the rim.” When the ball tips, her mentality never wavers: “My mindset is to own the paint, play physical, and win every possession.”
Her hope is that the way she plays inspires others. “I want my legacy to show that growth is contagious.” And her favorite memory so far is simple and heartfelt: “Being able to play with my friends Taylee and Valeria.”
Mia Billings, a 6’0″ sophomore, averages 10.5 points, 8.1 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, and 1.1 blocks. After high school, she plans “to get into a radiology program and work at a children’s hospital.”
