Throughout their career, an athlete can have a lot of memorable moments. Winning a championship, scoring the game winning points, or reaching a milestone are just some of the possibilities. But for Brie Smith, her favorite experience is something a little simpler, but it has had a huge impact on her.

“I think the highlight moments of my career would have to be all home games,” she said. “The crowd and atmosphere has been one of the best things to be a part of.”

As a senior at Collinsville High School, Smith plays basketball and softball for the Lady Cardinals. Outside of sports, she is also a part of the National Honor Society, Student Council, and Leadership.

There have been a few people that have played an important role in Brie’s life and helped shape her into the person that she is today.

“The biggest influences and role models in my life are my parents,” she said. “They show me what hard work looks like and have taught me how to be the best version of myself. Mrs. McCleer, who was my third grade teacher, was always positive and taught me great life lessons that I still remember to this day.”

Along with the influence of others, Smith has invested a lot to become a better athlete on the court and on the field. She says that keeping things in perspective has helped her stay on track.
“It takes a lot of hard work and patience to be successful,” she said. “The thing that motivates me is knowing that basketball doesn’t last forever so it motivates me to give it my all and enjoy it.”

Janson Hightower is the head girls basketball coach at Collinsville. He says that Brie is a key player for the team.

“Brie has had three very good high school seasons,” Hightower said. “She led our team in scoring last season at 15.6 points per game and also led in rebounds with 6.4 boards per game. She will most likely be a 1,000 point scorer and is one of the better offensive players I have coached. Brie is also an excellent student and person.”