Pulaski County High School senior Jaden Lawson has made a name for herself as a tough defender on the basketball court with the Lady Cougars. The past four seasons have found her and the team taking on some of the toughest talent in the Commonwealth each season. Now, that hard work is paying off as she has made her official college decision.
In a ceremony at the PCHS gym surrounded by family, friends, and teammates, Lawson made her decision official by signing her Letter of Intent to further her education and playing career at Kentucky Christian University, located in Grayson, Kentucky.
The Knights are led by Head Coach Dr. Lisa Conn. They are currently in the middle of a down year, with a record of 4-12 and a conference record of just 2-9. They are members of the Appalachian Athletic Conference and an affiliate member of the Mid-South Conference. Their opponents come from Ohio, North Carolina, Kentucky, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Georgia, and Florida.
Lawson, the daughter of Shaun and Georgette Lawson of Pulaski, has played basketball since she was in the third grade.
“I love the friends I’ve made and how much it’s changed me as a person,” she said. “The fan support has always been great here in Pulaski County. We’ve had a huge following when it comes to us versus other schools. The chance to play for this high school has been huge. The best time is whenever Christmas rolls around. Everybody is always happy and that’s all we talk about.”
When asked about who some of her influences have been, Lawson had a list.
“My Aunt Jody, she is my biggest role model,” Lawson said. “She has supported me through anything and everything. She has been the person I look up to the most in life. My mom is my best friend she has always been there for me and has never given up on me. My dad he has pushed me to make me a better person and he always knows what to say in the moment. Lastly, both of my brothers. They have made such a huge impact on my life because they work so hard in their lives and they make sure they get what they need. They never give up on things, no matter what it is.”
With a 3.6 grade point average, what are some of her favorite subjects and what does she plan to study in college?
“I like math,” she said. “It’s easy for me to understand. I plan to major in business management in college.”
Kentucky Christian was not the only school that was hoping to get Jaden after high school.
“I got looks from and talked to Montreat College, Lynchburg College, and Davis and Elkins College,” she said. “I chose Kentucky Christian University because they made me feel like I was already a part of their program when I started talking to them. All of the coaching staff were very welcoming.”
What advice would Jaden Lawson give to a young athlete hoping to play at the high school and maybe even college level one day?
“Don’t let things get you too frustrated,” she said. “Every sport is hard. You just have to work at it and keep your grades up. Keep making sure you get your work done on and off the court. It makes everything much easier.”