The Hayward High Lady Farmers are going into their winter break feeling pretty good. They are the owners of a three game winning streak, an accomplishment which has put them back at .500 (5-5) and undefeated in HAAL play at (2-0).

Head Coach Al Smith has had an arsenal of weapons at his disposal, but his biggest threat also happens to be his biggest player. Nailah Davis stands at a towering 6’1” but plays the game like she is immeasurable.

The season may be young, but Davis’ numbers are certainly becoming the talk of Hayward High. Gaining a double-double per contest is a difficult task but Davis does it with ease, averaging 13.5 points and 11.5 rebounds. As a matter of fact, in just the ten games played this season, the senior has broken into double digits in points eight times, and in rebounds seven times.

However, Davis’ best performance came in Hayward’s league-opener against Arroyo High. In the 67-55 victory, Davis collected 25 points, 17 rebounds and went 11-15 from the free throw line. She’ll look to match that performance when she and the Lady Farmers return to action Jan. 2, against Dublin High.

So with out further ado, the Tri-City Voice would like to honor Nailah Davis as the Female Athlete of the Month for January. Davis was kind enough to sit down and chat with the TCV about what makes her keep going on and off the court.

Tri-City Voice: Do you think it benefits your game being as tall as you are?
Nailah Davis: Definitely. It’s a lot, because it’s easier rebounds and easier put-backs.

TCV: How long have you played the game of basketball?
ND: Since I was about in second grade.

TCV: What got you into the game?
ND: Family. My whole entire family is tall, so it was just natural for me to start to play.

TCV: Do you play any other sports?
ND: I used to be in gymnastics, t-ball, volleyball and track & field.

TCV: Most athletes have their rituals orsuperstitions; do you have any of your own?
ND: I do, but I’m trying not to put that in my mind. I like to put my jersey on right before I play, instead of wearing it around.

TCV: Would you like to continue playing after high school?
ND: Yes, most definitely. I’m looking into the four-year universities.

TCV: What schools are you interested in?
ND: Dominican

TCV: Who have been your inspirations, not only in basketball, but in life also?
ND: I would still say my family, supporters and my coaches because they’re the ones who taught me the game and how to love it.

TCV: If you weren’t playing basketball, what do you think you’d be doing?
ND: (Giggles) I think I would be unhealthy, mentally and physically.

TCV: What’s your favorite subject in school? And why?
ND: Physiology, anatomy and biology because I like science. I plan on majoring in that.

TCV: What has been your favorite moment playing basketball?
ND: There are a lot of things. I guess my favorite moment would be coming home and saying like, “hey Dad, guess what? I got a 20-20,” and just seeing the smile and saying “I knew you could always do it.”

TCV: What can you say about Coach Al and your teammates?
ND: We’re a new team from last year. I think we have a better chance, like we’re settling our differences and our cliques to play as one, as a team.

TCV: When you aren’t playing basketball, what are you doing?
ND: Relaxing, homework, Internet.

TCV: Anything else you’d like to add?
ND: I would just like to send thanks to everybody. Even from my second grade teammates because they still motivated me. And the people who had believed in me when I didn’t have it in myself.