EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Cenaya Calhoun-Jingles is the VYPE DFW Preseason Girls Hooper of the Year

As basketball gets into full swing of things, plenty of athletes have already shown their ability on the court. Dedicating time and effort to their craft and giving it their all through practices and games, these athletes shine for their community. Recently, VYPE DFW ran the 2023-24 VYPE DFW Public School Girls Basketball Preseason Player of the Year Fan Poll. The fans have spoken and Dallas L.G. Pinkston hooper Cenaya Calhoun-Jingles was named the preseason player of the year. VYPE DFW interviewed the talented athlete on her time at Pinkston and what fans can expect to continue to see from her during her senior season on the court.

As a point guard and shooting guard for the Vikings, Calhoun-Jingles has helped make an impact on the court for Pinkston. With a leadership quality mentality, this athlete continues to help guide those around her through tough moments on and off the court. Check out her interview now:

What, in your opinion, is your greatest strength?
"It's hard for me to identify one of my strengths, so I'm going to share with you my greatest strengths as a person and basketball player. I'm resilient, hard-working, and a dedicated person. I try to see the good in every situation."

What have you been working on during the offseason that you're excited to showcase on the court this season?
"This offseason I've been working on my offensive skillset. I just want to show people that I can score the ball. Also my leadership skills and ability to lead a team through tough times. This season it hasn't been easy, but in my opinion, it has been worth it. We are all learning from each other."

What are your personal goals this season?
"My personal goal for this season is to become a student of the game-- which can have a positive impact on my skillset on both ends of the court. I want to earn a basketball scholarship. I want to have a high IQ-- which I believe will help me and my teammates learn together."

What is your mindset as you enter a new season?
"My mindset as we enter a new season is to see adversities and challenges as a way to grow and learn. Take every opportunity and chance I get very seriously. I also want to embody never giving up and also try and find the positive in bad situations."

What do you do to stay ahead of your competition?
"The things I do to get ahead of the competition is working overtime to perfect my craft and skills. During this time, I am putting up extra shots and working on ball handling because there's always something I can do better or different."

What has been your favorite memory at Pinkston so far?
"My favorite memory at Pinkston so far is connecting with people and building relationships with people on and off the court."

What goals do you have for your team this season?
"The goals I have for the team this season is of course making the playoffs; I also want to help the underclassmen build their confidence and trust. I also want each of us to learn from every lose and use mistakes as opportunities to grow. Also to be consistent during games and practice."

Who do you look up to and why?
"I look up to my parents because they have pushed me many times passed what I thought was my limit both academically and athletically. My parents are my biggest fans and also my biggest critics. They keep me on my toes and let me know when I am getting too comfortable with anything. They have taught me so much along this basketball journey and have supported me with every decision I've made. My parents would give up their summers just so I can play summer ball or train."

Do you have a pregame routine that you try to stick to?
"My pregrame routine that I try to stick to is to isolate myself from all distractions. This gives me an opportunity to lock in and get ready for the game. During this time, I am listening to music, reading inspirational notes, and stretching. I also like to say a prayer before every game just being thankful for the opportunity to play this game."

Calhoun-Jingles and the rest of the L.G. Pinkston Vikings have been working hard this season. Be sure you catch the team in action as they inch closer and closer to district play!