Senior Deauzya “DiDi” Richards was one of the 24 high school students selected nationwide to compete in the McDonald’s All-American Basketball Game. On Wed., February 15, at Cypress Ranch High School, Richards was presented with a McDonald’s All-American Game jersey. Speaking with Richards about the ceremony, she claims that the celebratory event held in her honor made the achievement feel all the more real.

“It was a blessing and it was fun,” Richards said. “I was happy to have my brother, especially, and my parents and friends that showed up. It was a really nice turnout.”

Richards, Baylor University basketball signee, has worked incredibly hard and her efforts have obviously paid off after being selected to play in the prestigious event. Honored as a McDonald’s All-American Game hero on her birthday, the five-star athlete has earned her way to the court by playing to the best of her abilities. She will undoubtedly show off her skills in Chicago during the superstar game on March 29, 2017.

“I am really humble about it, but I am excited,” Richards said. “Working out two to three times a day was really hard so I am happy I am finally able to go.”

Basketball coach, Tresa Hornsby, has supported Richards throughout her four years of playing with the Lady Mustangs. Being able to see Richards achieve such an amazing opportunity, Hornsby has always pushed her to play her very best, knowing it would create a positive outcome.

“It made me feel extremely proud of her,” Hornsby said. “[Richards] has worked extremely hard for four years and that was one of her goals and to see her accomplish that goal was amazing.”

The support Richards receives has tremendously helped her get to where she is now. Support from her friends, family, and fans has motivated Richards to push herself at every game.

“I hope to go far with basketball, play in the WNBA, use it to travel,” Richards said. “The biggest thing is supporters and fans that want to see me succeed. Those are the people that push me to go further and so I am happy to have as much as I do.”