Hawaii Second Team Girls Basketball: Marquez honored for exceptional performance acknowledged in All-Hawaii Second Team selection.
FRESH SPIN:
Small-town basketball often plays second fiddle to the city lights, but not for Kohala's star guard, Kalia Marquez. This gritty athlete single-handedly catapulted Kohala's girls basketball team to their first Big Island Interscholastic Federation (BIIF) title in 31 years!
With the Cowgirls finally grabbing the title in 2024-25, Marquez was rewarded with one of Hawaii's top athletic honors. Last week, she was named to the Scoring Live All-Hawaii Second Team, recognizing her stunning performances on the court.
Hailing from a multi-sport family at Kohala, Marquez dedicated her senior season to the hardwood - a decision that wasn't easy but proved worthwhile.
"Making the All-Hawaii Second Team was more than just recognition for my talent," said Marquez. "It's a testament to the countless hours of hard work and endless sacrifices. Giving up my senior year of volleyball was tough, but it allowed me to focus and grow as a leader both in basketball and softball."
Marquez's love of the game began at the tender age of five, and she hasn't looked back since. Her childhood dream of playing for her hometown became a reality during her junior season, when she returned to North Hawaii.
Fueled by the support of her community, coaches, and loving family, Marquez averaged 12.7 points for the Cowgirls in 2024-25. She torched the nets for a season-high 23 points against Ka'u and Honoka'a, and her relentless presence on the defensive end saw her log five-or-more steals in seven games.
In the BIIF Division II Championship against Pahoa, Marquez racked up 12 points, four rebounds, three assists, and four steals, helping Kohala secure the victory. She also led the team in scoring during the state tournament.
The Cowgirls may have fallen short in the state semifinals against Hanalani, but Marquez still beamed with pride for her team's remarkable journey. "This season has been unforgettable," she said. "We worked so hard to win the BIIF championship, and I am beyond proud to share this victory with my teammates."
Though she's yet to decide on her college destination, Marquez plans to study business. She knows she'll always have the love and support of the Kohala community behind her, and the lessons she's learned won't be forgotten.
"To my parents, coaches, and community," Marquez said. "Thank you for shaping me into the person and athlete I am today. Your love, support, and sacrifices will never be forgotten."
Kalia Marquez's story reminds us that heart, promise, and sheer determination can trump anything, no matter where you're from. 📲💎🏀
For more insights on Kalia Marquez and her impact on Kohala girls basketball, check out:
- Kalia Marquez: All-Hawaii Second Team Honors
- Highlights: Recognized as one of the state's top high school basketball players, earning a spot on the All-Hawaii Second Team.
- Significance: An elite accolade that showcases Marquez's exceptional skills and perseverance on the court.
- Key Statistics & Performance
- Stats: Regularly scored in double-digits, averaging 5+ rebounds, 3+ assists, or 2+ steals per game.
- Leadership: Led her team to competitive league and state tournament performances.
- Impact on Kohala Girls Basketball
- Program Elevation: Enhanced Kohala's basketball reputation and inspired new players.
- Community Recognition: Raised the school's athletic profile and became a local inspiration for aspiring athletes.
- Legacy: Set standards for future Kohala players and demonstrated that smaller schools can earn statewide acclaim.
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- Kalia Marquez, the star athlete from Kohala, has not only excelled in basketball but also has plans to study business in college.
- Marquez was awarded one of Hawaii's top athletic honors, the All-Hawaii Second Team, in 2024.
- The Kohala community and coaches played a significant role in shaping Marquez into a formidable basketball player and a community inspiration.
- In the 2024-25 season, Marquez, as the guard for the Cowgirls, led her team to victory in the Big Island Interscholastic Federation (BIIF) title, a feat not achieved in 31 years.
- Marquez's athletic journey has set a high standard for future Kohala players, demonstrating that smaller schools can earn statewide acclaim.
