The Strawberry Crest Lady Chargers advanced to regionals on Jan. 30, with a 59-50 win over Tampa Bay Tech, and largely because of the stellar play of Aliyah Gregory. Over two games in the district tournament, Gregory totaled 44 points, 13 steals, 13 boards and eight assists.
What were you feeling throughout the tournament?
I was just really excited about the opportunity we had, as a team, to make history and go out with a bang. I feel like we have the ability to go all the way to states.
The Tampa Bay Tech game was pretty close. What was the key to winning that one?
Staying intense. That was the biggest crowd we’ve ever had at any of our games. The crowd was really hyped for both sides. It was just a matter of focusing on the things we needed to do to win the game.
How has Assist to Score been going?
Pretty well. I’m 16 points shy of my goal of 2,000, which I’m sure I can get with this game on Thursday, and after we advance past Thursday, it’ll just be adding on. I’m not sure how much we’ve made in donations — I haven’t calculated it all up yet, (because) the season’s not over.
What are your hobbies outside of basketball?
I’m not a very good singer, but I like to sing. I like to hang out with my friends, go shopping. I love shoes — shoe shopping is always good.
What kind of music do you like?
A lot of Christian rap. Gospel songs. I know it’s weird, but I like Miley Cyrus. I like Monica. That’s about it.
So, you’re one of those people who sings in the car while driving?
Yeah, but I always have my windows up, so no one can hear me. I really sing that bad!
What are your favorite shoes?
Typically, I only wear Nike. I’m trying to stop being so biased, but I try to just wear Nike. My favorite are the Nike Roshe Runs. They just recently came out, and I have four pairs right now. I really want the new KD’s, but I’m not sure where I would wear them. I can’t play basketball in them.
So, it’s almost time to graduate. What are you looking forward to at UCF?
Getting better. You’ll be in an environment where you’re working hard, training every day, and we’ll be playing good teams like UConn on a nightly basis. And then, not just the basketball aspect of it, but the connections I’ll make in college and being able to meet new people. I’m ready to move on to a new journey in my life.