2025 Basketball interview with I'yonna Sawyer from Maumee Valley Country Day

 

Name: I'yonna Sawyer

School/town: Maumee Valley Country Day/Toledo

Positions played: Point Guard

Class: 2029

Height: 5'5

Jersey Number: 05

Awards won or earned: City League Track Champs, City League Basketball Champs

Other sports played: Basketball, Boxing, and Track

Please post a small recap of last season with something like a big game you had, something about a certain game, something from a bus ride to or from the game, or something that sticks out from a practice.

Coach Niki always tells us, "Don't be afraid to shoot if you're open." I've hit several game-winning shots by building that confidence to shoot under pressure.

Would you tell the readers a little about your school, like where you are located and the conference/league you play in?

Maumee Valley has been ranked as the No. 1 private K-12 school in Lucas County as well as the Toledo area, according to Niche. We also earned the top spot for best high school for STEM, which included rankings for both private and public schools. The school’s overall ranking was an A+. I love that we are being taught as an individual and not a whole. And the chefs really cook us good meals, lol.

What has been the biggest lesson you have learned from playing sports?

Don't focus on your mistakes. Keep going.

What are your goals for the season?

Keeping my grades up, maintaining a healthy home/school balance, and staying locked in for the season.

What goals will you set for your team?

We come from all over, but when we step on that court, we play as one. I want us leaning on each other, pushing each other, and building each other up. My goal for this young group is simple: let’s lock in and make it to States.”

What do you feel is the strongest part of your game?

The strongest part of my game is my leadership. I know how to keep my team locked in, and I’m really good at reading the floor—knowing when to take the shot and when to make the extra pass.

Should there be a shot clock in Ohio high school basketball?

Yes! If we want the level of basketball in Ohio to grow and truly match other states that already use a shot clock, yes—it’s time. The game is evolving. Ohio shouldn’t fall behind. And they are being used at the next level.

Basketball, boxing, track, and flag football—how long have you played each sport?

I began playing basketball at the age of five, introduced to the sport by Coach Tim. At eight, I expanded my athletic development through boxing under Coach Ron Ensley, who continues to train me during the off-season. In eighth grade, I joined the track team, earning a city championship title and placing in three additional events. My speed and agility were influenced early on by my father, who excelled in flag football.

Point guard or shooting guard: Which one do you feel you are best at?

I feel my best as point guard. I'm really good at making good plays and reading the room.

What makes you a good teammate?

I’m a strong teammate because I’m highly coachable. I value learning from others and supporting those around me so we can all reach our full potential. I’m not a selfish player—I always consider what’s best for the team as a whole.

What is the toughest part of Maumee Valley Country Day School practice?

They shoot cubes. It helps our shot and shows us what we are doing wrong, but it is weird to shoot with it.

What type of offense and defense do you like playing the best? Explain

Offensively, I like playing in a fast-paced, motion-style offense. I enjoy systems that create constant movement, spacing, and good decision-making—it allows me to use my court vision, know when to shoot, and when to make the extra pass.

Defensively, I prefer an aggressive man-to-man defense. I like the challenge of guarding my assignment, applying pressure, and communicating with my teammates. It keeps us locked in and sets the tone for the game.

As an athlete, what has been your biggest accomplishment?

As an athlete, my biggest accomplishment has been staying humble. No matter how much I grow or what I achieve, I stay grounded, keep learning, and continue to put the team first.

What is your favorite home-cooked meal? Chicken Alfredo

Who is your favorite athlete? Zia Cooke

What was the last book that you read, along with the author?

Dear Black Girl by A'ja Wilson

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