The girls basketball program is notorious for getting a new coach every year, and this year was no exception. Lisa Branch is the newest addition to the team, and she has been welcomed with open arms.
Branch graduated from the University of Texas A&M with a degree in Kinesiology, but she is best known for her astonishing records she set while playing ball for Texas A&M. Yet despite her on-court performance, it’s what she learned off off the court that sticks with her the most.
“Being part of the A&M women’s basketball team taught me about life lessons. I learned to always be on time (15 minutes early),” Branch said. I learned to never take short cuts (it’s a waste of time). I learned how to handle adversity and challenges (with prayer, faith and family). I learned the importance of being a part of a team (sacrifice, commitment, hard work, and dedication). I learned how to be a leader (fearless). Lastly, I learned how to win, not just basketball games, but in life.”
Along with the countless records during her college career, she is the only All-American to come from Texas A&M’s Womens basketball program. The university appreciated her knowledge of the game so much, they named Branch assistant coach in 2002.
With such an impressive record as an Aggie, the school saw Branch as a wonderful addition to the girls basketball program.
“Personally, the transition coming into Lovejoy was slightly challenging, but professionally the transition has gone a lot smoother,” Branch said.
Although the team is just 6-11, the players are optimistic about the future.
“I like her a lot because she pushes us to our full potential,” junior Shani Rainey said. “But it’s been hard because last year we weren’t pushed very hard, so we have to get ourselves back into a tougher mentality.”
Branch is optimistic about the program’s future and has big plans for the team in the upcoming years.
“My goal for this program is to be a program and not just a team. This starts with developing relationships and basketball skills at the elementary schools and middle school,” Branch said. “Another goal of mine is to win District Championships; and my ultimate goal is to win State Championships.”
See Branch in her playing days:
http://archiveexhibits.library.tamu.edu/africanamerican/images/branch.jpg
