OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS, CLEAR BROOK HAS BEEN THE CROWN JEWEL OF CLEAR CREEK ISD GIRLS’ BASKETBALL.
Rezia Castillo has been at the center of the Wolverines’ success. Castillo enters her junior year having already earned District 24-6A MVP honors each of the two seasons, including a Newcomer of the Year selection as a freshman.
She has played well beyond her age and she has her sister to thank for that.
“It all began probably when I was in first grade,” said Castillo. “I have an older sister who played, and I’d go to her practices. I was on the sidelines, doing what they were doing, even though she’s six years older than me. I’ve kept playing just because it’s fun and I wanted to stick with what I loved. It has been my life ever since.”
What sets her apart from the pack is her unquestionable unselfishness on the court.
“I’d say my greatest strength is how I get my teammates involved,” she said. “Whenever the people around you get to contribute and enjoy themselves, I always think that’s what makes basketball more fun. As the point guard, that’s kind of my job, but it’s nice being the one directing that.”
Basketball can be a full-time gig. So, what does the Clear Brook guard do to take the edge off?
“With my personality, I think people might be surprised but I actually really enjoy reading,” Castillo said. “I could do that for hours at a time. I like anything fiction – realistic fiction, mystery, romance books. Colleen Hoover is one of my favorite authors. Everyone’s into technology now, but reading is still one of my favorite things to do.”
Clear Brook finished as undefeated (12-0) district champs a year ago, before subsequently advancing to the Regional Quarterfinals thanks to the efforts of Castillo and fellow junior guard Kamryn McLaurin. They each scored nearly 400 points on the year.
So, what’s it going to take to repeat that effort?
“This year is really going to be about digging in and being willing to put in the work,” said Castillo. “In previous years, our season really started over the summer, so we’re already in that process. But, when we take to the court, we’re going to have to work hard and play for each other.”
With Castillo running the show alongside McLaurin, it could be the Year of the Wolverine.