Cumberland County Lady Jets basketball player Aivree Stewart said her long journey back to the basketball court is no longer about waiting, but about playing.
The Cumberland County junior officially returned to action for the Lady Jets during non-district play after missing her sophomore year with a torn labrum. Cleared for contact just before the Lady Jets tipped off their season, Stewart said she has worked her way back into game action and is once again wearing a Lady Jets uniform on the court.
“It has been a long, long journey for this injury,” Stewart said. “I’m tired, and I’m ready, I’m very thankful I’ll be back for the regular season. That’s all I can say, really, really happy for that.”
A shooting guard for Cumberland County, Stewart comes off a year where she operated in a different role, one that required patience and leadership from the sidelines. Even while injured, she remained a constant presence with the team, choosing encouragement over frustration.
“I am a big part of encouraging them,” Stewart said. “I want them to know I’m always backing them, and I still am supporting them through everything. I go to everything with them, and we’re all so close and yes, I’ve been involved in more this summer and I’m very thankful that God has put me where I’m able to be right now.”
Stewart said that support system helped carry her through months of rehab and into the fall, where she was finally able to fully rejoin the team. Stewart has since returned to the rotation, pacing the team in steals and rebounds.
“[It] feels great to be back and able to do some movement.” Stewart said.
Now back in the rotation, Stewart adds depth and experience to a Cumberland County team that has opened the season with confidence. Her presence, both on and off the court, reflects a player who never left her team, even when she could not play.