Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/1524423
topics on my high school team this year was the team shoes. We all look for different things in shoes. While color is an important factor for me, I also prioritize good ankle support, wider toe space and great grip. I don't want to be caught slipping on the court. It's crucial to find shoes that offer excellent quality and can last through a tough season." Favorite shoe: "A black and pink pair of Nike Elevate 3s that I wore during my sophomore and junior seasons. ey had fantastic support, my feet never felt cramped and I didn't have to constantly tie them. Unfortunately, I wore them until they were threadbare, which broke my heart because they were perfect." Purchasing power: "I do have input into what we wear. My teammates and I get to share our opinions, especially when it comes to shoes. For example, my high school team and I picked out our purple Sabrinas for the season, which literally took us months to decide on. We started looking in August and finally agreed in November. My AAU (travel) coach makes it easier by showing us pictures of shoes, simplifying the decision process." Brand preferences: "My high school is an Under Armour school, while my AAU team is a Nike team. If I had to choose, I'd pick Under Armour because the material is thicker and less likely to rip. Nike tends to be more cotton and thinner, requiring extra care during washing to avoid shrinking. Ultimately, though, I'm just happy to be on the team and play with my friends." Cool brands: "Honestly, I've bought the same style and color Crocs for my last three pairs, so I might not be the best source. Jordans are definitely very popular and at school I see a lot of people wearing Jordans, Air Forces or plat- form Converse. And Nike is still super cool." Sock preferences: "White Nike socks are my go-to. ey go with everything, match most outfits and just look better. My only complaint is that they rip so easily. I went through nine pairs of socks during my past spring season alone." Who pays: "My mom is amazing. She always pulls through and buys my equipment for me. Once a year, on my birthday, I ask for a new basketball. Last year, my 12-year-old brother Cayden bought me one. He reminds me weekly that he bought it, so he gets to use it all the time. For basketball, I keep it simple. I usually just need socks, spandex and shoes." Horror stories: "My favorite pair of basketball shoes (Nike Elevate 3s) were so overused that I ended up spraining my ankle because the support was ruined. is past season, I rolled my ankle twice in these shoes — once at a tournament in Miami when a girl landed on my foot, and, again, during a Christmas tournament when I fell. I was devastated when the athletic trainer told me to retire the shoes." Gabby Fulton Talks Hoops Gabby is a member of the eighth-grade Wellington Wolves travel team in Wellington, FL. is fall, she will be a freshman at e St. Andrews School in Boca Raton, FL. Ball Talk: "I specifically love using Wilson Evo basketballs because of their lightweight feel and excellent grip. It's an easier basketball teaminsightmag.com July/August 2024 ~ Team Insight • 11 Aubry Eackles-Perine Brielle George