Brains, Beauty and Basketball Brawn 

In the realm of middle school basketball, a hoop trailblazer emerged and quickly seized the attention of enthusiasts and experts alike. Hailing from Alabama, Jayla Forbes is poised to rewrite the narrative of her state, which has traditionally been known for football, by showcasing her exceptional basketball capability. As she makes her mark on the hardwood and as the basketball landscape shifts — Jayla’s prowess signals the beginning of a new era for both girls and boys in the Heart of Dixie.

A Multifaceted Athlete

While many athletes specialize in one sport from a young age, Jayla (6-13 years old) began playing volleyball with a professional coach. She honed her natural gift in a discipline that required precision and coordination, but it was basketball that truly captured her heart. The transition from volleyball to basketball wasn’t just about adapting to a rather difficult game; it was about embracing the challenges and unique strategies basketball demanded. Jayla’s tendency to dominate the paint, her physicality, and the graceful way she navigates the court have set her apart as a force to be reckoned with.

A Heightened Advantage

Standing at an impressive 6 feet 7 inches, Jayla’s length gives her a distinctive edge over competition. However, she doesn’t simply rely on her stature to excel. Instead, she has harnessed her physical attributes to play strategically, avoiding using her enormous frame as a means to intimidate opponents.

The July Breakthrough

July third marked a pivotal moment in Jayla’s early college recruiting campaign. She secured the top spot in the MSE rankings, a juncture that sent ripples through the basketball community. The news of a 6’7″ eighth-grade girl taking the lead aroused interest far and wide, and it was clear that Jayla was no ordinary player. Fashioned a size that defied conventional norms for girls her age, Jayla demonstrated her skill, determination, and unmistakable potential.

July’s Flashback Highlights

• Jayla emerged as the rebounding leader in the GUAA (Girls Under Armour Association), a testament to her prowess in controlling the boards.

• She garnered four offers from a range of colleges, including Alabama, Ole Miss, Mississippi State and Auburn, as a university, positioning herself as a coveted prospect. (San Jose State paved the way, and the University of Miami and Alabama A&M’s institute have now followed suit with offers.)

• Jayla’s outstanding performance in the Run for the Roses tournament in Louisville, Kentucky, playing with All-Alabama 2025 Blue and winning it all, showcased her versatility and earned her recognition as an all-tournament player.

• She embarked on four unofficial college visits to schools such as Louisville, Alabama, Mississippi State and Vanderbilt, giving her valuable exposure to different programs.

A Path Forward

Jayla’s overall dominance seems far from over. In addition to upcoming camps and tourneys on her schedule, which includes a showcase in Tennessee the first weekend of August and the John Lucas Girls Top 160 Invitation Camp in Houston, Texas, this September, Jayla’s commitment to improving remains unwavering. Her mother’s proactive approach to exploring collegiate opportunities further exemplifies their support for her journey.

Balancing Acts

Jayla’s quest for greatness isn’t solely about her individual accomplishments; it’s about giving back and fostering a positive environment. She’s accustomed to utilizing her uncommon height to assist other players, and her focus on teamwork and sportsmanship emphasizes her well-rounded approach.

Bearing This in Mind

Even as Forbes continues to ascend the ranks, she’s setting the stage for a social milestone, where talent knows no gender boundaries and where Alabama’s reputation is no longer confined to the football field. Each rebound, block, and offensive move solidifies her status as a prominent standout, encouraging an emerging generation of athletes to transform into the best versions of themselves.