by Madison McRoy
From the moment that she was knocked down, it has been a journey of resilience. Aaliyah Taylor’s journey hasn’t been easy. But the lessons she learned have shaped her in powerful ways.
During a basketball game on January 31, 2025, at Oak Creek, Aaliyah Taylor jumped and took it in a way that would change her life and the season: “Took the jump but got knocked down,” she says. The injury shattered her season and led to a long recovery.
Since the injury, Aaliyah Taylor’s days have been filled with pain and with doctors’ appointments, CT scans, MRIs, physical therapy, chiropractic therapy, dry needling, eye therapy, and temporary glasses. But instead of breaking away, she faced the recovery journey and resolved to come back stronger than ever.
“I’ve been trying to stay in shape without doing my regular activities,” Aaliyah says. “It’s been tough not being able to play, but I’m focused on doing what I can.”
Aaliyah Taylor plays small forward on the varsity basketball team and wears #22. Aaliyah is known for her versatility and hustle; she steps into any role that her team needs. But more than just returning to the court, Aaliyah’s goal is much deeper: to push through setbacks while growing mentally and refining the skillset it takes to be a true varsity athlete.
“For basketball, I just wanted to play again,” Aaliyah admits. “I’ve started to lose my love for it from being out for so long. But I know once I’m back, it’ll come back to me.”
The mindset, one forced on personal growth, is also fueling Aaliyah’s track goals. Aaliyah Taylor hopes to qualify for state again, this time not just for the relays, but in individual events, too. Aaliyah is aiming for new personal records and knows that progress will take time, patience, and belief.
“The pain you feel today will be the strength you feel tomorrow.” “The comeback is ALWAYS stronger than the setback.” These two quotes, Aaliyah says, describe how she feels about her journey.
“When I broke my ankle in 7th grade, I thought I’d lost my speed and skills,” Aaliyah says. “But I came back even better. That’s what I’m holding on to now, the idea that this time will be no different.”
Aaliyah’s story is more than just a comeback – it’s a reminder of the grit it takes to be an athlete. She’s proof that with patience, determination, and love for the game, you can turn setbacks into strength. She pressed on, proving to herself that setbacks don’t define her: her growth does.
And as this season unfolds, one thing is certain: when #22 steps back onto the court, it won’t just be overturned, it’ll be a statement.
