MAROA, Ill. (WCIA) — Avery Braden has shattered a long-standing record at Maroa-Forsyth High School, setting a new benchmark in the school’s basketball history.

Braden eclipsed Deb Pope’s record on the girls’ career scoring list, now amassing over 1,465 points, making her the top scorer in the program’s history.

Since her sophomore year, Braden has been a key starter for the Trojans, consistently showcasing her skills on the court.

While her impressive scoring abilities have earned her a place in the team’s annals, Braden prides herself equally on her fierce defensive prowess.

“From my childhood, I’ve always been the competitive type, determined not to lose or be outplayed,” Braden shared. “This mentality naturally translated to basketball, where aggression is crucial, and they just clicked together.”

“She’s just a go-getter and she has been from day one and she came in as a freshman and made an impact and earned that starting position as a sophomore and has just kept moving forward,” head coach Selina Finck said. “I just love the, I call it the bulldog mentality.”

Braden is committed to continue her basketball career at Illinois Wesleyan next year.

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