If you looked up the definition of a beautiful baller, Mikala Hall would be the answer to the description. Hall began her basketball career at the age of 6 when she competed against the boys at the YMCA. With the choice of participating in gymnastics and playing basketball, Hall knew she had to choose one to be all in. Mikala showed her dedication to basketball as she began to take over high school ball. During her time at Danville High School, she earned multiple All-Area first team, and All-Conference first teams in three straight seasons, and surpassed the 1,000 points mark. Hall’s hard work earned her a spot at the collegiate level.

Hall committed to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) and began her college career in the 2018-19 season. Mikala is no stranger to balancing both academics and academics as she was able to transition smoothly with both her studies and basketball. “I’ve been able to balance school and basketball because my Dad taught me at a young age that the order for a successful life is God, school then basketball,” Hall states. “My faith has kept me locked in the times I wanted to give up because it can get stressful sometimes. I’m a gym rat so I’m in the gym almost all day but I just make sure I find time to focus on my school work and study when needed.” Mikala currently majors in psychology with a minor in communication at SIUE. As a leader, Hall sees how effective psychology has been both on and off the court as it allows her to gain an understanding perspective between her teammates and her coaches. Hall also realizes that athletes’ mental health is vital within the sports community especially when it comes to their success. “With me being a leader, communication is always important to keep my team together,” Mikala says. “It’s also helped me build connections within the sport in general.” After four seasons at SIUE, Hall transferred to Central Michigan where she would complete her collegiate career. After five seasons, Mikala totaled 391 points, 225 rebounds, 104 assists, 69 steals, 9 blocks, and registered 1,372 minutes.

With the coverage of women’s sports continuing to grow, Mikala is hopeful and sees the increase in women’s basketball happening in the future. After college, Hall is hopeful to play professionally somewhere or even overseas. Her passion for the game is immaculate as Hall sees her being around basketball for a while in some of the types of ways; whether it’s coaching or running a training center. For athletes, there is always that one role model that we look up to when it comes to life and sports. For Mikala Hall, that person is Phoenix Mercury’s, Skyler Diggins. She explains why Skylar has been a huge influence on her: “She (Skylar Diggins) attacks life with so much passion and you see that within her style of play on the court,” Mikala states. Hall also explains that she loves how Diggins shows the importance of femininity and family. “The main thing I love about her is how she always sees herself as the underdog and always defies the odds. I definitely love and appreciate everything she embodies as a black female athlete,” quotes Halls.

Mikala Hall is the perfect example of what it means to keep the faith and never give up. When asked what makes her and her story stand out, Mikala replies confidently: “My passion, resilience, and faith. No one can ever dim my light because I know I have a God-given purpose in this world and in my sport. I know I only thrive because of Jesus himself. That alone pushes me every day. He gives me so much joy to live life and not take it for granted. The death of my mother and grandfather changed me for the better. Three foot surgeries in high school not allowing me to play AAU could have hindered me but instead, it ignited a fire inside of me to push and never give up on myself. So I guess that’s why I’m where I’m at now in life. I didn’t give up on myself because God didn’t give up on me. My mindset is to always keep moving. Some process is better than none.”

Hall exemplifies faith as she advises athletes that want to follow in her footsteps to make sure it is something that they want to do. “Don’t let the people’s opinions steer you away from your passion. Be ready to sacrifice your life for the love of the game. Know your purpose and live in it with peace and happiness,” Hall concludes.

To learn more about Mikala and her journey, be sure to follow her on Instagram: Mikala_anise.