Sports Spotlight: Anna Grace Williams

Anna Grace Williams is the only senior on Foundation Academy’s girls basketball team. A knee injury prevented her from joining the basketball team, but it didn’t stop her from becoming a star player on the volleyball court. The standout senior also excels in the classroom and is involved in various other extracurricular activities.

How long have you been playing basketball?

Since I was 7 years old, so about 10 years.

How did you get started?

My dad — we’re big fans of Memphis basketball — he taught my brother and I at a young age, so it’s been the family sport.

What’s the season been like for you so far?

It’s been a learning season. It’s been really fun. … It’s a lot of work, but it’s been good.

What are some things you all have been learning and working on?

We started at the basics. We’re a fairly new team, so we’re starting with the beginner stuff (such as) dribbling, drills (and) we’ve been going over some plays. 

You’ve been at Foundation Academy since your freshman year and have always loved basketball, but this is your first year on the team. Why didn’t you join sooner?

(In) ninth grade, I hurt my knee, so I couldn’t really do what basketball required of me for my knee, so I just played volleyball. And then coach (Deborah) (Pennick) asked to help (with) leadership for the girls, so I decided to come and help her.

What’s your favorite thing about playing basketball?

I like defending.

What it’s like being the only senior on the team?

It’s really different. I don’t have girls my age to talk to, but it’s definitely refreshing to be with younger girls and just let loose.

Any advice for you team moving forward after you graduate?

Keep working hard. They have a lot of potential, and they’re all really great girls. I think if they just keep working together … they’ll be really good in the future.

What’s your favorite basketball team?

The Memphis Tigers. … (My family) has always cheered for them. I don’t think we’ve cheered for anyone else.

What’s the best piece of basketball-related advice you’ve received?

Work hard, stay focused and have a good attitude.

What’s your favorite place to go eat after a game?

I like Waffle House. It’s so good.

Where do you plan on going to college?

I’m not sure on my school yet, (but) I have some options. I’m looking at Samford, UT — the University of Tennessee — FSU, UNF, Stetson. There are a bunch that I’ve applied to.

What major do you want to pursue?

I’m thinking of (majoring in) speech pathology or law — pre-law.

Do you have any other hobbies outside of sports?

I like to sing, hang out with my family (and) my brother (and) hang out with friends.

Who are some of your favorite musical artists?

I really like Adele (and) I like The Band CAMINO — it’s a really small band but I really like them.