In the months that followed, Aaliyah faced numerous surgeries, extensive physical therapy, and painful rehabilitation sessions that required her to relearn basic movements. She started with simple tasks like making a fist and wiggling her toes before progressing to walking independently. In addition to the physical challenges, she also undertook the emotional journey of recovery.
Even while hospitalized, Aaliyah was determined to fulfill her ambition of playing for USC. She managed to sign her national letter of intent during her treatment, showcasing her unwavering dedication.
“This journey has been the hardest battle of my life,” she reflected. “There were days when pain and fear felt overpowering, but the love for basketball motivated me. Every step was a step closer to returning to the game I cherish. My family, coaches, and teammates provided me with incredible support, lifting me when I needed it most. Their faith in me, combined with my passion for the game, helped me overcome each hurdle.”
Finally, in November 2023, Aaliyah made her debut on the court wearing a USC jersey, greeted by a standing ovation that celebrated her comeback to competitive play. Over the course of seven games, she logged 44 minutes, scoring 10 points and securing six rebounds.
Currently in her sophomore year at USC, Gayles, alongside Jailen Daniel-Dalton, a senior at San Francisco State University, has been honored with the CalHOPE Courage Award for October 2024.
This prestigious award, presented by College Sports Communicators in partnership with CalHOPE and the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-Being, celebrates student-athletes in California who have navigated mental health challenges and personal adversities. Along with the recognition, a donation will be directed to support mental health services on campus for all awardees.
Daniel-Dalton faced a life-changing moment when he discovered in September 2023 that he was going to be a father. As a college athlete, he was already managing the grueling demands of academics and athletics, but the news added immense pressure. He was also recovering from an injury while commuting between his college and his girlfriend’s home in Mountain View. The uncertainties of impending fatherhood made concentrating on basketball increasingly difficult.
The mental burden of balancing these new responsibilities was immense. His schedule brimmed with early workouts, study hall commitments, and travel, all while ensuring his GPA remained intact, as it was tied to his scholarship. The stakes were daunting, and he felt the pressure to manage everything successfully to avoid failing in basketball and academics.
Guided by his experiences at Gavilan Community College, Jailen understood the crucial need for prioritizing mental well-being. The challenges he faced in this new chapter of life compelled him to draw upon coping strategies that he had developed. Although not fully prepared for this transition, he had cultivated enough resilience to navigate it successfully.
“I take pride in the resilience and dedication to my family and team that have shaped my journey and fortified me on and off the court,” he shared. “The challenges have tested my mental fortitude. Juggling basketball, academics, and fatherhood has pushed me in unexpected ways. At times, I felt overwhelmed, but I leaned heavily on the support from family, teammates, and coaches. I’ve learned the importance of seeking help from those around you when facing challenges.”
Despite these hurdles, Jailen, a 6-foot-6 forward, thrived in his first season with the Gators, earning second-team All-California Collegiate Athletic Association honors. He led his team in scoring (11.8 points per game) and rebounding (6.6 per game) and ranked second in assists (50) and blocked shots (19). However, a shoulder injury will prevent him from participating in the 2024-25 season.