By Blake Chadwick
Derby High School’s Aysia Fox has built her reputation as one of the most relentless defenders in Kansas. A junior guard for the Panthers, Fox’s energy and competitive nature make her a cornerstone for a Derby team that finished as the Class 6A state runner-up last season.
“I feel like my biggest strengths are my speed, defense, and competitiveness,” Fox said. “I’ve always taken pride in guarding the other team’s best player and setting the tone with my energy.”
Fox has been playing basketball since second grade, first in rec leagues at the YMCA before advancing to play against boys and older girls in third and fourth grade. That early experience built her toughness and competitiveness — traits that now define her game.
“This year my personal goals are to improve myself individually to help my team and to also get some more college looks,” Fox said. “My team goal this year is to win state.”
Her mindset this season centers on leadership and growth.
“This year I aim to be a leader that empowers my teammates,” Fox said. “I want to help everyone around me get better and make sure we’re locked in every time we step on the court.”
For Fox, being coachable is a key part of her success.
“Being coachable means having trust in your coach and staying disciplined,” she said. “It’s helped me improve in a lot of ways, and it’s something I’ll always take pride in.”
