Senior point guard Kisha James often dishes out assists to her teammates and occasionally scores on the basketball court.
Like every point guard should, James possesses the quality of selflessness most of the best college and professional players lack.
But James came through and assisted for a different cause this time. She displayed a selflessness most would respect and admire,as she dished out a very special assist to those in need.
James, who was known to have a long braided ponytail draped down the back of her jersey for the past four seasons (including a redshirt year), chose this season to have a new look. The decision to cut her hair short also helped make someone’s day brighter.
She donated the cut hair to Locks of Love, a non-profit organization which takes cut hair and creates a hair piece for children up to age 18 — with a condition that causes long-term hair loss — who could otherwise not afford the prosthetic.
James said she followed the same path as former Lady Tigers softball great and friend Britni Sneed as well as student trainer Anna Gross.
“It was a hard thing to do because I’ve had long hair since I was a baby,” James said. “I thought it was time for a change; I thought about it and it wasn’t a bad idea. In fact, I just got my certificate [acknowledging she donated].”
The action does not surprise head coach Sue Gunter. Despite two torn anterior cruciate ligaments, James never let the injuries get her down or upset. This season James is averaging 3.1 points per game and over three assists per game.
“She’s just a special kid,” Gunter said. “Not only did she have two knee surgeries, but her freshman year (1998-99) just before the playoffs, she broke two bones in her foot. She’s the kind of kid you can never keep down.”
College athletes are suppose to be a reflection of the university they attend. With her action, James has become a positive role model for young women.
“I try to set a good example on and off the court,” James said. “Everybody was wondering who that new person on the court was. They didn’t realize it was me. I wanted to do it because I knew some of those people were in need. I thought it was just a good idea to donate it.”
“I think with us being college athletes and us setting good examples, we’re like role models for the younger kids,” she said. “Whatever they see us do, they’re going to do it.”
In the days of the violent, angry and un-fan friendly athlete, it’s good to see an athlete possess qualities of a role model. James is one who actually gives back for the betterment of society as a part of the Southeastern Conference’s Good Works Team.
“She’s wonderful working with kids,” Gunter said. “A great role model is what you’re talking about. She’s a very giving person.”
The Locks of Love Web site states its main purpose for the children is to “provide help to restore their self-esteem and their confidence, enabling them to face the world and their peers.”
If you have an interest in donating to the organization or would like more information, go to www.lockoflove.org or call the organization toll free at 1-888-896-1588.