Jalynn Holmes started playing basketball when she was just six years old. For this P.G. County, Maryland native, the sport was a world she had been surrounded by and passionate about from a young age. From her middle brother playing at Morehouse College to her dad playing at American University and professionally overseas, growing up around basketball confirmed her interest in pursuing a career of her own in the sport. She was unstoppable. During her time in high school, at Riverdale Baptist High School, Jalynn reinforced her commitment to playing at the highest level and creating her own legacy. Sure enough, she did just that. Throughout her career there, Jalynn helped her team win a NACA Championship and the Dick’s National Championship Tournament, elevated her IQ level, and became a standout shooting guard. Upon graduation, she embarked on her collegiate career at Towson University before transferring to Norfolk State University—strengthening her skills on the court further and deepening her knowledge of the game. It didn't stop there. After her time at Norfolk State, she continued her collegiate career at Temple University and hasn't slowed down since. Currently in her second year at Temple, Jalynn is looking forward to working towards an AAC Championship this season while also pursuing her interests in sports broadcasting, fashion, and community outreach off the court.
Let's dive into your journey early on! When did you discover that you wanted to start playing the game and potentially pursue a career in the sport?
I knew early, very early. I grew up around it, and I have played since I was about 7 (years old)—AAU teams, rec teams, and then in high school. I went to Riverdale Baptist School, which is a nationally ranked program, and that's when it really got more serious for me. Once I started to get interest from schools and things like that, I started to see that I could really go somewhere with this. It was always a passion for me (as well). I have worked as hard as I can since I was young. I was always in the gym with my dad and always wanted to learn more and get better.
You had an incredible high school career and won two championships. What did earning those mean to you?
Yeah! It was amazing. We actually won the Dick's National Championship too, now it’s called the GEICO Championship, and we played at Madison Square Garden twice because that’s where the championship was hosted. We lost one year in the championship—my junior year—, but my freshman year we won the whole thing. Earning those championships meant a lot. My coach and my teammates, we all took pride in winning. You know, we were winners. We worked hard and we deserved to win. That mentality was great, and it was great celebrating the wins because you have to push through adversity to get that.
How do you think your game elevated throughout your years in high school to prepare you for the next level?