After years of hard work on and off the court, senior Gabby Seiler concluded her basketball career as a Chief, not only by receiving four varsity letters for basketball, but also by breaking the all-time scoring record set more than 20 years ago.
On Tuesday, February 12, Seiler broke McIntosh’s all-time scoring record of 1918 points, set by Jeff Sheppard, a former University of Kentucky Wildcat. Sheppard, who was a two-time NCAA Champion, briefly played in the NBA for the Atlanta Hawks.
Seiler set the record at 1919 points on a free-throw. Seiler said, “It felt incredible to break his record because not only did he play in the NBA but he also won two National Championships at Kentucky.” She said, “It was an honor to even be in the same category as him.”
Seiler’s season did not end there though. She scored a total of 2,003 points, inducting her into both the 1,000 and 2,000 point club.
Seiler made the 1,000 point club four games into her junior year against the East Coweta Lady Indians. She joined the 2,000 point club at her final career game during the second round of state AAAAA playoffs this year against the Effingham County Rebels.
When asked about what she will miss most, Seiler said, “I will miss my amazing teammates and coaches and also the game. There is no other feeling like game day, and it is sad that my basketball journey is completely over.” While she will not be playing collegiate basketball, Seiler will be attending University of Georgia to play soccer.
Seiler may have broken and set records, but she is humble and a team player, an attribute the crowd is quick to notice. She acknowledges that her teammates helped her succeed. She said, “They were extremely supportive and always tried to get me the ball. There is no way I could have achieved these individual accolades without my teammates.”
“Passing to my teammates is probably my favorite part of the game. I get such a high when my other teammates shine and are making all the shots.” Seiler continued, “I love seeing my teammates succeed. It is by far one of the best feelings when playing basketball.”
Seiler contributes her success to her dad. She said, “He always encouraged me to play sports, especially basketball. If it were not for him, I don’t know if I would still be playing basketball. He has been my inspiration and the reason why I had success in basketball.”
Seiler’s favorite game memory was beating Fayette county her junior year. She said, “We were the major underdogs, and it felt relieving knowing our hard work paid off.”
Seiler’s hard work and dedication in every game has earned her a lasting legacy and positive reputation. Her record will be hard to beat.
