Empowering Dreams Through Basketball: The Inspiring Journey of The Sisterhood

 

 

In the heart of Mississippi, a remarkable organization is changing the landscape of girls' basketball. The Sisterhood (TSH) is more than just a basketball team; it's a testament to the power of determination, community, and empowerment. In this feature, we delve into the world of The Sisterhood, from its inception to its commitment to uplifting young girls in Mississippi.

 

Building The Sisterhood

 

Could you provide some background on the Sisterhood organization?

 

The Sisterhood is an AAU Elite Team for girls, aged 13U to 16U. Founded as a parent-led non-profit organization, it goes beyond basketball, focusing on the holistic development of its young athletes. The organization's founder, in an exclusive interview, shares, "We wanted to compete against the top teams in the nation, to show that Mississippi Girls Could Ball, and to make a name for ourselves beyond our home state."

 

The Sisterhood Team

 

Can you describe the philosophy and mission behind the Sisterhood basketball program?

 

The Sisterhood's mission is about uniting the community around the sport of basketball. Their unwavering commitment is to promote teamwork, mutual respect, pride, and personal growth on and off the court.

 

How did you come up with the name "Sisterhood" for the team?

 

The name "Sisterhood" signifies a bond of acceptance and support. It represents a commitment to always stand by each other, through the highs and lows, both on and off the court. The Sisterhood isn't just about basketball; it's about supporting one another, on and off the court.

 

What are some of the core values you emphasize within the team?

 

The organization instills core values in its members, such as the importance of excelling in school, making good choices, and representing their family and community positively at all times. School is prioritized, and academic performance is linked to playing time.

 

Achieving Excellence

 

The Sisterhood is known as one of the top teams in the country. What strategies and training methods have contributed to this success?

 

Their success is rooted in a combination of individual skill drills, weight training, and team building. The organization promotes both team and individual workouts, ensuring each player is positioned for both individual and team success.

 

Can you share any notable achievements or milestones the team has reached?

 

In a testament to their dedication and hard work, The Sisterhood played in top-tier tournaments across multiple states. Their 2026 and 2027 teams finished the AAU season with a remarkable record of 27-6, with the 2027 team boasting an unbeaten streak in Mississippi. Their achievements were recognized when they were named an ELITE 40 Basketball Program by the Ohio Basketball League.

 

What challenges did you face in building a top-performing team, and how did you overcome them?

 

Challenges included securing funding and facing skepticism from some. The organization's founder recalls the "Public Naysayers" who doubted their ability. They overcame these challenges with determination, building a team to support their girls' dreams of playing basketball at the high school and collegiate levels.

 

The Ark Gym

 

Tell us about the Sisterhood's home gym, "The Ark."

 

The Sisterhood's partnership with "The Ark" is vital. This facility is dedicated to community empowerment, restoration, and transformation, serving children, youth, families, and the elderly in the Greater Jackson area. It provides a state-of-the-art space and professional trainers for individual skill development.

 

Community Engagement

 

As a 501(c)(3) organization, can you explain the community outreach and engagement initiatives that the Sisterhood is involved in?

 

The Sisterhood has been actively involved in community outreach. One initiative, "Sisterhood Sundays," was offered to girls in the Metro Jackson Area, focusing on improving basketball skills and fostering camaraderie and fitness. These sessions created a platform for young athletes to develop lasting friendships and promote healthy competition.

 

Future Goals

 

What are your long-term goals for the Sisterhood organization?

 

The Sisterhood aims to continue growing and becoming a staple in the community, bringing girls from different backgrounds together to promote girls' basketball in Mississippi.

 

Are there plans to expand or diversify the program in the future?

 

In 2024, The Sisterhood plans to expand its league, catering to different age groups, reflecting their dedication to offering more opportunities for girls in basketball.

 

Prospective

 

How do you hope this magazine feature will benefit the Sisterhood and its mission?

 

The organization hopes that this feature will spotlight their mission, showcase the talent in Mississippi, and open doors for young female athletes to gain the exposure they need to pursue their basketball careers.

 

Closing Thoughts

 

Is there anything else you would like to add or share about the Sisterhood organization, your journey, or your vision for the future?

 

The Sisterhood encourages support from the community and beyond. Donations help young athletes attend highly visible AAU tournaments, receive college offers, and gain access to essential resources. Their mission is clear: empower young girls and prove that Mississippi Girls Can Ball.

 

We truly appreciate any donation to support the mission of The Sisiterhood, Inc. Your donation can be sent via CashApp to $TSHLADYLIONS or a check can be mailed to: PO Box 2444, Ridgeland, MS 39158.  Please provide your organization’s name and address for any contributions so that a receipt can be provided to you for your tax-deductible donation to our organization.  

 

Visit us on social media:

Twitter (X) - @TSHLadyLions

Instagram -tshladylions

Facebook – The Sisterhood Lady Lions

 

We thank you in advance for your support to this worthy organization!