For Gabby Helsom, basketball wasn’t always the obvious choice. Raised in a volleyball-centric family, the Homestead junior standout recalls a time when the sport her parents loved took precedence. Her mom, a former collegiate volleyball player, and her dad, a coach, naturally introduced her to the sport. However, Helsom’s heart found its way to basketball, inspired by WNBA star Sabrina Ionescu, and a relentless passion for the game was born.

“I grew up in a volleyball gym, but at an early age, my parents put me in basketball as well,” Helsom shared. “I absolutely adored it and wanted to work out all the time, trying to mimic the girls I idolized. At the time, my favorite player was Sabrina Ionescu, who helped develop my dream of playing college basketball.”

A Sharpshooter on the Rise

Helsom has established herself as one of the premier sharpshooters in Indiana high school basketball. The 5’11” guard for the Homestead Lady Spartans is a leader on and off the court, known for her precision from beyond the arc and her ability to guide teammates through tight games.

Last season, Helsom averaged 16.1 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game, helping Homestead to a 23-5 record and a deep postseason run. This year, she’s raised the bar, showcasing her growth and strength as a player.

“I think the greatest attribute I bring to my team is my experience and leadership,” Helsom said. “With the other juniors, we’ve played significant minutes in tight games, which hopefully will benefit us down the stretch.”

Helsom’s leadership was on full display Tuesday night when she scored a career-high 34 points in Homestead’s 76-66 win over defending 3A state runner-up Norwell Knights. It was a performance that underscored her tireless work ethic and the chemistry she shares with her teammates.

“Last night was a product of hard work, but mainly my teammates’ incredible passing and court vision all throughout the game,” Helsom noted.

Recruiting Frenzy

As her junior season unfolds, Helsom’s recruiting journey is in full swing. She has received interest from numerous Division I programs, including Ball State, Harvard, Evansville, and Toledo, among others. The process has been a rewarding experience for Helsom, who remains grateful for the opportunities coming her way.

“It’s been so amazing to meet so many coaches, and I am so blessed to have them believe in me as a person and a player,” Helsom said.

Team Redemption

The Lady Spartans are off to a 4-0 start this season, with their sights set on redemption after falling to Lake Central in last year’s Class 4A semi-state. Helsom and her teammates are motivated to make a deeper postseason run, bringing back all five starters and aiming for a state title.

“Losing in semi-state last year, we’re using it as fuel going into this season,” Helsom said. “We’d like to win a conference championship and make a deep postseason run.”

The Lady Spartans, who last won a state championship in 2017, are leaning on their experienced junior class to guide the way. With Helsom at the forefront, Homestead is poised to contend for another state title.

Looking Ahead

Homestead’s journey continues tonight at Spartan Arena, where they’ll face the 3-2 Concordia Cadets. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. As the Lady Spartans aim to build on their hot start, Gabby Helsom’s leadership, shooting prowess, and unwavering determination remain critical to their success.