Four years ago, Maddy Benard ’25 started her high school basketball career. As a freshman, she had high aspirations to get 1,000 points, and on Dec. 26, 2025 her dream became a reality. However, the road there was not easy.
In Benard’s freshman winter season, she had a strong, motivated start. Midway through the season she tore her ACL and was out the rest of the season. After her injury she was unable to play her travel summer season going into her sophomore year, causing a setback in her career. Entering her sophomore year’s winter season, she was still recovering and needed a brace, not playing at her all-time best.
“After my injury, I wanted to get back to where I was before,” Benard said. “The love I have for the sport really motivated me and pushed me to be a stronger, better version of myself.”
Many girls on her team’s at that age were going through the recruitment process and given opportunities Benard had always dreamed of. She was proud of them and looked up to them, hoping her future would go the same way. She was determined to recover speedily, and now is committed to Wayne State University, excited to continue her basketball career.
“Next year I plan to be a good point guard, not always scoring, but to also pass the ball to my teammates,” Benard said. “I’m excited to build good relationships with them.”
Basketball has been a crucial part of Benard’s life, and her dedication expands past just practices and games. She manages to balance her school life by doing her homework in her free time during class, or as soon as she gets home from practice. If she has an early morning Saturday game or practice, she ensures she lays low Friday night and gets an ample amount of rest, aiming to do her best on the court.
Benard always wanted to get to 1,000 points but was unaware of how rare it is. Being the fourth girl in South’s history to do so was extremely meaningful and made her proud of herself. Watching her older brother play his games has always been her biggest inspiration and has given her hope. Now she wants to be an inspiration for younger girls in the same position she used to be in.
“One thing I would highly encourage is to not compare yourself to others because everyone has a different path,” Benard said. “Your time might come at a different time than someone else’s.”
