Skyview High School senior Jada Kemm can spend the next two months or so minus one large item on her plate.
Kemm opted to play women’s basketball and study at McCook College in Nebraska.
“McCook feels like a home away from home,” Kemm said. “Coach (Brandon) Prichett made me feel like it was home. How the program is run is everything you would want.”
The vibes she felt after a visit made the choice easy.
“The mantra is what it felt like, and everyone is family and treated the same while being pushed to be accountable and to be your best, much like home,” she said. “I was (able to take a campus tour), and I absolutely fell in love with the campus, especially the facilities and court.”
The tour and a chance to visit with her new coach played a part in her decision, too.
“I got to get a feel for everything, and I saw myself walking around campus for my academics, then going to the court and playing,” Kemm said. “I got to see the team play as they worked together and communicated with each other. I saw the ups and downs and still could see myself fitting right in.”
Colorado Northwestern Community College in Rangely showed some interest, as did:
- Western Wyoming Community College in Wyoming
- Chandler Community College in Arizona
- St. Mary’s University in Minnesota
- Lamar Community College in Colorado
- Hesston Community College in Kansas
- Highlands Community College in Kansas
- Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln, Nebraska
“The distance (from home) did come into my decision,” Kemm said. “I wanted to be far but just close enough so I could still visit frequently with my family and so they could also come visit and be a part of my experience.”
Kemm averaged 10.5 points per game and a bit more than seven rebounds per contest this season.
The Wolverines finished 19-5 and qualified for the state 5A girls tournament. Kemm plans to study psychology in college.
“High school basketball has prepared me in every aspect, whether that’s on or off the court,” she said. “It has taught me skills such as communication, leading, perseverance, determination, dedication and discipline. Every aspect of our program, the coaches pushed getting ready for the next level in life.”
What’s more, she’s ready for the next challenge.
“I’m beyond excited to see where this journey will take me,” Kemm said. “I’m ready to grind in my academics and on the court with my soon-to-be teammates and coaches. I would like to thank all of my family members, my high school coaches, my teachers, teammates and my friends for pushing me. The sky is not the limit. It is just the beginning.”