An outstanding season has earned junior Kathleen Crawley four of the highest honors in Florida high school basketball. Crawley was recently named the FHSAA Class 4A Florida Dairy Farmers Girls Basketball Player of the Year,  the Florida Association of Basketball Coaches Girls player of the Year, the Florida times union Girls Basketball  player of the Year, and the News4Jax Girls Basketball Player of the Year, recognizing her performance on the court and her leadership throughout the season.

“I was definitely surprised when I was told I won,” Crawley said. “Also super grateful and blessed to be recognized with this honor. This award means everything to me.” 

These awards are some of the most prestigious honors in the state, highlighting the top players across all categories. Being named Girls Player of the Year places Crawley among the elite athletes in Florida high school basketball.

“I think this award is one my whole team deserves just as much,” Crawley said. “It’s a huge testament to the effort we put into this season and how we lived up to our ‘standard of excellence’ each day.”

Crawley played a key role in leading her team to a successful year, consistently delivering strong performances on both ends of the court. Known for her scoring ability, court vision and defensive presence, she quickly became one of the most dominant players in Class 4A. 

Game after game, Crawley proved to be a difference-maker, helping her team compete and succeed at a high level against tough opponents.

“A lot of people don’t see the consistency of showing up day in and day out even when it’s hard,” Crawley said. “I spend countless hours in the gym when no one’s watching, going through trials and errors, but that pushes me to stay disciplined and to never give up.”

Beyond her statistics, Crawley’s impact was felt in her leadership and work ethic. As a junior, she stepped into a major role, setting the tone for her teammates and demonstrating what it means to compete with intensity and determination.

“The biggest challenge I faced this season was keeping the team’s spirits high and focused when we lost a couple of games in a row,” Crawley said. “As one of the leaders of the team, I tried to motivate us to stick together through the bumps in the road.”

Crawley also emphasized the importance of her team in her success, especially during a season that resulted in a historic achievement.

“I wouldn’t be half the player or person I am today without my teammates and coaches,” Crawley said. “The word we focused on this year was ‘legacy,’ and I think we left a lasting legacy this season bringing home the first state championship in over 30 years.”

Off the court, Crawley credits much of her motivation and support to her family.

“A lot of people don’t know I come from a big family,” Crawley said. “They mean everything to me, especially my twin sister, Paige. She is my rock, and I am so lucky I get to experience everything with her by my side.”

With another year still ahead of her in high school basketball, Crawley’s future looks bright. As she continues to develop her game, expectations will only grow, but if this season is any indication, she is more than ready for the challenge.

“What’s next for me is playing on my Nike travel team, The Miami Suns, throughout this coming summer,” Crawley said. “Then I’m back playing for BK with our focus on next season.”

Crawley also hopes to inspire younger athletes who look up to her success.