Chloe Gordon is an ASU Cronkite Journalism student assigned to cover Liberty High School for AZPreps365.com

At Liberty High School, Omoye-Ojavan Aguebor became a key player within the girls basketball program this season.

Known for her intensity and versatility on the court, she helped bring a new energy to the team.

“She has grown through mental toughness and also her confidence has grown majorly,” Liberty coach MJ Walker said in March. “This change is clear in how Aguebor approaches games and practices now.” 

Basketball has been a big part of Aguebor’s life since her father introduced her to it when she was 4 years old, she said. She began playing at the club level in 8th grade. From that point on, the game has had a huge impact on her — shaping not only her mindset in everyday life, but also her work ethic. 

“I’ve been through some challenges, but I have learned from them and that’s what made me more confident in my abilities," she said in March. 

Transferring to Liberty from Sunrise Mountain High School in Peoria before the 2025-26 school year was a big transition for her. However, when Aguebor switched schools, she said it was a game-changer.

“I think it's probably one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” she said of the transfer. “Now I can just be myself around my teammates, and that’s an amazing feeling”. 

Brettlyn Bordson, a senior teammate who will play basketball and study nursing at Mount Mary University, said the connection between her teammates is really important.

“It’s really like a little family. I know I could go to them if I ever needed anything,” Bordson said.

The close friendships off the court have helped the team perform better during games as well.

Bordson said she believes the team showed major growth throughout the season. Liberty finished the season 11-8, 4-4 in 6A Desert Valley. Its 2026 campaign ended February 26 in a loss to Sunnyside in the second round of the 6A State championship. 

“Our record wasn’t as good as we wanted it to be, but there was so much growth," Bordson said. "It was like, 'Wow, we did really well this year."  

After high school, Aguebor hopes of continuing to play basketball at the collegiate level. Her goals include receiving a college offer and helping the Lions make a playoff run next season.

When she's not on the court Aguebor finds motivation in her family, especially from her nephew.

“He’s really why I keep playing,” she said. “He comes to at least 90% of my games, and in his free time he’s always outside practicing, and trying to learn new skills. He even watches videos on Youtube to try to improve his game.” 

As she keeps improving her game, Aguebor and the Lions have a lot to be excited about. With Aguebor on board the future is looking bright for Liberty basketball.