Searcy(LP): This time of the year is always busy when it comes to high school seniors trying to sign on to a college for the sport they love. It seems to be every senior’s dream for a college to pick them to play a sport for their school. Searcy High School senior Keke Broadway turned this dream into a reality on April 6th when she signed to play basketball for the Central Baptist Mustangs.

College basketball has always been the goal for Keke. “Ever since I was a little girl basketball has been my passion,” Keke told us. “What better way to go to college than getting to do the thing you love every single day?”

Because college is very different from high school in almost every aspect, we asked Keke what she expected to be different about college basketball. “I definitely expect the difficulty level to go up. Practices will be harder and more often. We will travel farther for games. I will have to push myself even harder than before, but it will definitely be worth it,” Keke told us.

It is a common thing to see a college athlete get overwhelmed with their school work and their sport. We asked Keke how she thinks she will handle the mix of harder school and harder basketball. “I know it will not be easy, but I know I can handle it. I will have to remember that school always comes first because without good grades, I will not be able to play. The more work I put into it, the more I will get out of it.”

For a lot of young athletes the dream of going to play college ball seems very far off. Keke told us a few things she would say to someone wanted to play college ball one day. “It is not as far off as you think. Even if you think there is no way that you can make it, I promise you can get there. Practice hard and never stop trying, and one day, you will be signing on to play the sport you love.”

Searcy High School is so proud of Keke and all of her accomplishments. Make sure you congratulate the new Central Baptist Mustang, Keke Broadway!