STORRS, Conn. — Stailee Heard never aspired to embody the role model or become the emblem for individuals living with visual impairment.
Leading the charge for the Oklahoma State women’s basketball team in their upcoming clash against South Dakota State in the inaugural round of the NCAA women’s tournament, Heard has never allowed her blindness in the right eye to deter her ambitions. She intends to keep that streak alive.
“I hear that frequently because I’m not inclined to inform people, as I don’t want it to be perceived as an excuse,” shared Heard, who was born without sight in her right eye. “This condition has been my constant companion, so others finding empowerment in my story is quite remarkable. When they recognize me as a good player, knowing I’m blind in one eye boosts that perception.”
Skeptics might have questioned whether her impaired vision would obstruct Heard’s aspiration to play at a prominent collegiate level. However, that doubt never originated from her circle of friends and family.
“My parents were particularly encouraging, and it was their constant reassurance,” Heard recounted. “I never faltered or hesitated, and they never had to reinforce that attitude in me.”
The Oklahoma State coaching staff initially overlooked Heard’s blindness when they began evaluating the 5-foot-11 sophomore from Sapulpa, Oklahoma. This oversight speaks volumes about her basketball prowess.
“She is incredibly humble,” commented Oklahoma State women’s basketball coach Jacie Hoyt. “She rarely discusses it, though I wish she did because it’s both impressive and inspirational.
“I think she embodies perseverance against adversity fittingly, reflecting our program’s ethos of owning challenges without blaming circumstances or adopting a victim mindset. She epitomizes this philosophy, managing her situation with extraordinary grace, which is rare among athletes nationwide.”
During her breakout sophomore season, Heard has shone through with standout performances, including scoring 34 points against Texas Tech in the Big 12 quarterfinals and recording 25 points against Baylor in the semifinals.
Averaging 16.7 points and 8.1 rebounds per game, Heard, alongside fellow Oklahoma inhabitant Micah Gray, is set to start in Saturday’s NCAA tournament opener. She relishes engaging with high school players attending Cowgirls’ games, reinforcing that impactful basketball experiences are achievable close to home.
“Staying local holds significant value,” Heard expressed. “It shows aspiring players that their home ground can be a launchpad. I enjoy interacting with them post-game, and I believe it resonates.”