High School Basketball Star Receives Multiple Scholarship Offers
Emma Hughes
Gila River Indian News
Kierah “Sugar” Pablo, a standout senior at Riverside Indian School in Anadarko, Okla., has captured the attention of college scouts, receiving multiple scholarship offers to play basketball at the collegiate level.
“I am extremely thankful for my basketball scholarship offers,” said Pablo. “I am very excited for my future, and as of right now, I have not committed to where I will be continuing my journey.”
Among the schools offering scholarships are Arizona Christian University, Hartnell College, and Phoenix College, each recognizing the young athlete’s talent and potential. Pablo is expected to make a decision soon, weighing factors such as academics, coaching staff, and team fit.
Pablo, a Community member from District 5, is the daughter of RaySean Pablo Sr. and Sharon Pablo. She shares that her nickname “Sugar” was given to her by her grandfather, Raymond Pablo Sr., when she was just a baby. “I take a lot of pride in my nickname,” she said.
She plans to graduate college with a degree in Nursing and a minor in Sports Management, begin her career, and return to the Community to give back and serve fellow members.
“One of my main goals for myself being Native American from Gila River is just to be a role model to the youth,” Pablo said. “Always be proud of who you are and where you come from; never forget your roots.”
During her time with the Riverside Lady Braves, the team won the district and regional championship in Oklahoma.
“Overall I had a great senior season of basketball and [I’m] very thankful for the opportunity; now time to start training for college,” said Pablo.
She expresses her deep gratitude to her parents and entire family for their unwavering love and support. She also acknowledges her mentor, David Grace, who always tells her, “Do more with your 24! Make every day your masterpiece!” This support has been instrumental in her journey.
Pablo would also like to thank Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis for supporting and donating basketball shoes to the Gila River youth programs and attending local basketball tournaments, Native American Junior Nationals, and the Native American Basketball Invitational (NABI).
As she prepares for the next chapter, her family, coaches, and teammates alike are eager to see where Pablo will take her talents next. Her advice to other students and youth is, “Anything is possible if you put your mind to it. The process is not going to be easy, but you have to stay focused and committed to accomplishing your goal.”