Classroom Champions: West’s Kylee Jones

WACO, Texas (KWTX) - West high school was just starting its playoff run when its star player went down.

Kylee Jones says, “We collided and I just remember falling on the ground and screaming.”

Kylee tore multiple ligaments in her knee.

Fortunately, she was able to have surgery just before COVID stopped non-essential operations, and her long path back to the basketball court was underway.

West High’s coach, Kevin Zuehlke, marvels, “To do the work that she has done to be able to come back, while having to stay at home... is impressive.”

Because of the pandemic, Kylee was forced to rehab her knee at home, without being able to see any of her friends or teammates for support.

She remembers, “It was very long. It was stressful, but I pushed through it.”

Though she missed most of volleyball season, Kylee accomplished her goal of getting back in time for her senior basketball season, becoming a source of inspiration for her community.

Coach Zuehlke has noticed, “The younger kids look up to her – both literally and figuratively.”

Not only do the kids love watching the reigning District 17-3A Offensive Player of Year, they also love learning from her.

Kylee and her friends coach 5th and 6th graders.

Coach Zuehlke says, “To give up that time means a lot to those kids, it means a lot to the parents, and the community.”

Kylee has found joy in being an example for the next generation of athletes.

Her tough road back to the basketball court has helped shape the path she hopes to take in life.

Kylee says, “I love working with little kids, and when I grow up I want to be a physical therapist and help out other people. It’s just fun working with others.”