From the moment she first dribbled a basketball, Aalyssa Rogers’ love for the game was inevitable.
Way before practices and college arenas, she started in a much simpler place — her garage at home. With a ball in her hands and her big brother by her side, the foundation of her basketball journey was made.
“My big brother used to take me into the garage when I was little, and he used to dribble a basketball with me,” Rogers said. “He taught me how to dribble before I even knew how to walk correctly.”
That early bond not only launched her into the sport but sparked a passion that would grow into a lifelong dream of playing Division I basketball. When the opportunity to join Oakland University arose, the decision was easy.
While reaching the Division I level marked a huge milestone, her path hasn’t come without adversity. During her freshman year of college, she faced one of the toughest challenges of her athletic career — tearing her ACL. The injury was her first serious setback in the sport and forced her to confront both physical and mental hurdles.
“I had never been injured before, so it was very hard to overcome and get over the fear of getting back into the game of basketball like I had been before,” Rogers said.
The recovery process tested her resilience, patience and identity as an athlete, but it ultimately strengthened her perspective. Through every high and low, there has been one constant source of strength — her mom, the same person she credits as her biggest inspiration.
“She has had my back and been there for me every step of my life, and she has been as supportive as possible even through the ups and downs,” Rogers said.
Beyond just support, she says her mother’s kindness and faith have helped shape the person she strives to be. That faith and family foundation carries directly into how she approaches basketball and her teammates.
“She is always kind to everyone she meets and walks heavily in her faith. I’ve always wanted to shape my life through hers,” Rogers said.
Rogers says her favorite moments happen away from the court — a bond with her team that reflects her view of teamwork, something she believes is essential to success at the collegiate level.
“My favorite moments would have to be off the court with my team. They are like a second family, and every moment I spend with them is amazing,” Rogers said.
Individually, she credits her determination and work ethic as her greatest strengths. Whether she is pushing through rehab, practice drills or game preparation, her mindset fuels her daily approach.
“I always want to get better, and I’m obsessed with seeing the product of my hard work,” Rogers said.
Before games, music helps her lock in mentally, and her go‑to hype song is “Pump It Up” by Joe Budden.
After the final buzzer, she starts with nutrition — something simple and packed with protein. Her favorite protein‑packed meal is salmon and rice.
From dribbling in her garage with her brother to overcoming injury and competing at the Division I level, Aalyssa Rogers’ journey is built on perseverance, faith and family support.