Athlete of the Week: Sofi Miller, The First Academy girls basketball

The First Academy girls basketball’s Sofi Miller, a 6-foot-2 forward signed to play college hoops at Tennessee Tech next season, has been a walking double-double since her freshman season. She has averaged double-digit points and rebounds for three consecutive years. 

So far, as a senior, the Sarasota High transfer has continued her run of dominance on the boards and getting buckets as a member of this new-look Royals team — even grabbing her 1,000th career rebound earlier this season, to go along with her more than 1,000 career points. 

Before Miller heads back to her home state to achieve her dream of playing college basketball, she still has one more career milestone she wants to check off her list: win a state title.

The Basics

Age: 18

Sport: Basketball 

Grade: Senior

School: The First Academy

Q&A

How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?

To be named Athlete of the Week is both an honor and a blessing. I appreciate the accolade, and I am proud to represent TFA.

What do you like the most about basketball?

I love basketball, because the game is constantly changing. I love the challenge of its physicality and competition and I enjoy sharing those challenges with my teammates.

How does it feel to be committed to play in college?

It is my dream to play in college, and getting the opportunity to go back to my home state and play makes it even better! I am extremely blessed, but I am also making sure to soak up every moment of my senior year.

What is your goal for this season, both for yourself and the team?

My goal for this season is to be the best teammate I can be through serving others. I want to lead by example and continue to learn and grow as a person and player. My team goal is to continue to grow together as a family, remain dedicated, energized, focused and do something this season to cement this team’s legacy.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from basketball?

I’ve learned how to work together with my teammates to achieve goals. I’ve also learned humility, trust and sacrifice.

What is your favorite basketball memory?

Scoring my 1,000th point and grabbing my 1,000th rebound.

Who is your favorite athlete?

I really admire Napheesa Collier as a female athlete and as a female icon. She continuously strives to lead in multiple ways on and off the court. 

Is there someone after whom you try to model your game?

I try to model parts of my game after A’ja Wilson. She is a dominant force both inside and outside the paint. She is tough and isn’t afraid of physicality, but she also strives to maintain a dominating mentality.

What is your go-to pre-game meal?

A chicken sandwich from Chick-fil-A with a kale-crunch salad and lemonade!

What is your go-to pre-game hype song?

“Clear Eyes, Full Heart, Can’t Lose” by T. Powell.

What is your favorite non-sports hobby?

My favorite non-sports hobby is spending time with my family.

What is your favorite subject in school?

My current favorite subject in school is health/anatomy. I am taking a sports medicine class, and I truly enjoy learning about all the components of optimizing an athlete’s performance while minimizing the risks of injuries.

What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island?

Water filter to stay hydrated, a fire starter so I can be warm and a basketball so I won’t get bored.

What is your favorite movie?

“Champions.” It shares a message about the value of relationships and is emotionally impactful to others. This movie uses the game of basketball to help show the importance of being kind and emotionally open to others and the challenges it takes to live life authentically.

If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?

I would choose Pat Summit. I say this not only because of what she has done for women’s sports but also because of how kind and genuine she was.

If you could go back in time, when and where would you go? 

I would go back to the early 2000s or 2010s and experience an old “hardwood classic” women’s basketball game between Connecticut and Tennessee. Those were always more than just basketball, and the legacy they have left behind speaks volumes as to how it must have felt in the moment.

Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?

I would tell my younger self to push more, even when absolute adversity is faced. Even when you feel as if you’re stranded on an island and can’t swim, at least try.

If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be?

Did all my sacrifices and hard work pay off?

Who is your favorite superhero?

The Incredible Hulk, because he exemplifies extreme strength and endurance.

Who is your favorite supervillain?

Thanos, because he is far more dangerous and has more raw power than any other villain.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

Time travel, so I can go back and re-live my favorite childhood memories.

If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go and why?

England, to visit my dad’s side of the family; Switzerland, to see the Alps; and the Maldives, to swim in the crystal blue water.

If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be and why?

I would be a lion, because they are the top predator in their environment. A lion exemplifies the ability to be a natural leader, have confidence and be decisive.

What is your most controversial food take?

Mint chocolate chip ice cream does not taste like toothpaste.

Does pineapple belong on pizza?

Yes absolutely! I love pineapple and ham pizza, with a side of ranch!