Sierra Anderson

Not many players get to play for their fathers, but that is the case with Whitley County senior Sierra Anderson.

The 5-10 forward will end her high school career after playing for years for long-time Lady Colonels coach Larry Anderson.

Sierra was picked the preseason Player of the Year in the 50th District after an outstanding junior season.

She is averaging 10 points and 8 rebounds a game for the Lady Colonels, who are expected to challenge for the regional title.

What does her future in basketball look like? Here is a recent interview with Sierra and her father, Larry.

NJ: What do you enjoy most about basketball?

Anderson: “I’ve played basketball since I was very young and went to my first basketball game when I was six-weeks-old, so it has always been in my life.”

NJ: What do you feel is your role on this team?

Anderson: “Being a leader and bringing it every night. If I don’t bring it, I can’t expect the younger ones to bring it. I have to be ready and be on top of my game.”

NJ: How hard is it to play for your dad?

Anderson: “It’s extremely hard at times. He yells at me a lot, but I won’t say more than others, but he is going to pick on my a little more. Some people would thank it is easier, but it is the exact opposite. He knows what I can do and If I don’t do it he definitely lets me know.”

NJ: What is the most enjoyable thing about playing for your dad.

Anderson: “Actually, I like the constructive criticism. He is always honest with me. I don’t have to worry about him sugar-coating. He tells me straight up if I am doing something wrong then I go and correct it. It has helped me grow and mature and not take anything for granted.”

NJ: Do you play any other sports?

Anderson: “I run track. I high jump, long jump and run the 800-meter-dash.”

NJ: What is something your teammates don’t know about you?

Anderson: “Well, they know a lot, but it might be that I like to eat coffee grounds. It’s a weird habit, but it’s something I do.”

NJ: What was the best advice ever given to you about playing basketball?

Anderson: “A quote that my dad says all the time…the desire to be great must come from within. I think you have to want it for yourself first no one can push you to do it unless you are willing to. You have to be willing to give it your all and expect someone to make you do it.”

NJ: Why do you wear #15?

Anderson: “I have wore it since elementary school and it just kind of stuck with me. When I got into high school I got to be a Florida Gators fan and Tim Tiebow was 15 and he was kind of like an inspiration and is a Christian.”

NJ: If someone walked into your room, what is the first thing they would see?

Anderson: “That I like the color Aqua Blue. It is all over the place. They would see all of my plagues and trophies and my princess crowns when I used to do pageants when I was younger. You would definitely see my accomplishments, I like to put them up.”

NJ: Who would you most like to meet?

Anderson: Candice Parker, when she played for Tennessee I really looked up to her and how hard she worked. She was always one of the hardest workers on the court and I want to be like that. She was a good leader and led her team and I would like to be like that.”

NJ: What do you like to do in your spare time?

Anderson: “I like to hang out with friends. I like to watch movies when I can relax. I like to go shoot at the gym with my dad on Sundays after church.

NJ: Do you hope to play college basketball?

Anderson: “Yes, I definitely want to. I couldn’t see this as my last year playing basketball. It breaks my heart to think about that, so I definitely want to if I get the chance. If it’s meant to be it will happen. I am trying my hardest to get a scholarship.

––Jim McAlister

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