In the Northern Lakes Conference, few athletes have shown the resilience and improvement that Ava Couture has demonstrated. A 5’10” combo guard from Wawasee High School, Ava has made a name for herself not only for her skills on the court but for her inspiring journey. After being cut from her fifth-grade team, she became determined to become the best version of herself, embracing every challenge along the way. Her favorite movie, Uncle Drew, instilled in her a love for basketball and a drive to succeed, motivating her to continually push forward.
“Everything started back in elementary school,” Couture told Indiana Preps. “Getting cut in fifth grade taught me strength and how life is going to be. Basketball gives me peace. My favorite quote from Uncle Drew is, ‘What’s there not to love? You bounce the ball, and it comes right back to you.’ It’s like basketball has a string on my heart and soul, and there’s no parting with it. My goal is to play hard and keep loving the game!”
As a junior, Couture averaged 6.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.0 assist per game. Now a senior, she aims to leave her mark as a triple threat, contributing to every aspect of the game. Her main objective? To help her team win and to leave high school with a sectional championship under her belt.
“This year, my main goal is to make an impact in every category, no matter how high or low,” Couture shared. “I want to be a triple threat and a well-rounded player. Our team goal is simple: to win, win, and win!”
Wawasee’s Lady Warriors wrapped up the 2023 season with a solid 14-10 record, going 4-3 in conference play. With a senior-heavy roster and the return of top scorer Mackenzie Hackleman, the team is poised for another strong season. Couture feels grateful for the chemistry and experience they share, which she believes will be their competitive edge.
“I’ve played with these girls for four years, and there’s a unique connection,” Couture said. “We know where each other will be on the court without even thinking. Our chemistry and love for the game make us a force to be reckoned with!”
As she considers her future, Couture is focused on finding a Christian university that aligns with her faith. Schools like Antelope Valley, Great Lakes Christian, North Park, Dubuque, and Judson University have extended offers, and Ava seeks a college that feels like home, with values that resonate with her own.
“As a Christian, I want a private university that feels like family,” Couture expressed. “It’s important to me that my future team and school share my values.”
In her final high school season, Couture’s primary goal is to secure that elusive sectional championship title. Last season’s narrow 45-40 loss to Fairfield in the sectional semifinal left the team hungry for redemption, and they’re ready to compete.
“This year, we’re all hungry for that sectional title,” she exclaimed. “I want to win it with the team I love!”
Couture and the Lady Warriors look to regroup from that tough loss as they prepare to face 2-1 Westview on the road this Friday. Tip-off at the Warrior Dome is set for 7:30 p.m., and Wawasee is ready to prove they’re a team to watch this season.