Some players talk about goals; others chase them. For McCurtain senior guard Kaylee Culwell, every practice, possession, and late-night shooting session is fueled by one mission she states with certainty: “To become a better overall player and teammate. The ultimate goal I have this year is to make it to the state tournament!” That mindset has shaped everything about her final high-school season.
Ask her about the team’s chemistry and she’ll tell you it’s one of McCurtain’s biggest advantages. “Everyone is supportive of each other. We push each other to become better players and teammates.” That daily environment has already paid off. Culwell said the most noticeable change from last season comes from within: “The biggest improvement I have seen this year would be the attitudes and mindset.”
Success doesn’t happen by accident, and the Lady Bulldogs are intentional about what they want. “Our main goal is to become the best team we can possibly be. The next would be to make it to the state tournament. Achieving these goals comes with a lot of hard work. We have our practices and open gym to get as much accomplished as we can.”
That hard work matches the talent on McCurtain’s roster. As Culwell puts it, “We are an athletic group. We spin the ball quickly. We can shoot the ball.” Her own versatility adds to that strength— “I play point/shooting guard and occasionally in the post.”
On the court, she processes the game with a deliberate eye. “I read the player’s stance… I look to see the high-post area and how they guard that. I see how much pressure they put on the ball.” Her preparation is just as focused: “I get shots up before the game, I get enough sleep, and I stay hydrated.”
But the mental approach may be her sharpest weapon. “My mindset is believing in myself and my teammates that we can play with anyone and win. I never step on the court thinking we are going to lose.”
Culwell hopes people remember her impact long after she graduates. “That I was a good teammate to play with… I made a change in my team and helped lead us to the big games.” One of those big-game moments is already unforgettable: “We were playing for district champs… and we ended up winning by 4 points.”
Now a senior, she’s involved in FCA and BPA, and plans “to attend college and get my psychology degree and become a counselor/psychiatrist.”
McCurtain basketball is chasing history this year—because players like Culwell expect nothing less.
