Mostly everyone knows Gianna “Gigi” Jasseh, a senior student athlete for Bellefonte High. From her kind attitude, to her warm presence, Gigi’s impact on the school both on and off the court can be felt.

At first, Gigi originally joined the basketball team due to needing an extra-curricular, but over time, Gigi began to enjoy basketball.

“I originally joined basketball because my mom made me, the more I played, the more I loved it,” Gigi said, “basketball [is] something I genuinely care about.”

Being on a team for four years means making unforgettable memories with the people around you. One of Gigi’s is the after-game hangouts with the other Lady Raiders.

“My favorite moment with the team was going to Sheetz after games. Even after losing, we always made everything fun,” she said.

As a senior, Gigi is faced with a decision that will change the trajectory of her life. Deciding where to go to college is a big choice that most seniors struggle with. 

“I plan to pursue a major for Nursing in college to earn my BSN,” Gigi said, “I hope to keep playing [basketball] in my free time

Yet, despite college and high school basketball being the same on paper, there are big differences between playing for a high school, and representing your college. Due to this, a feeling of loss may appear in college athletes, a sense of “nostalgia” for their high school days. 

“I’ll miss playing deeply. It was the first sport I really fell in love with. I love helping out with the younger girls and watching them progress.”

Yet, Gigi will miss one thing the most. 

“I’ll especially miss being around my teammates and being on the court,” she said

Gigi uplifts both friends and teammates in the high school, and the school will continue to cheer her on no matter where she goes.