At just five years old, Ella Sottile fell in love with basketball through a little kids’ league—and she’s never looked back. Now a senior at Elk City High School, her passion for the game remains just as strong. “I started playing in a little kids league and have been in love with the sport ever since,” Ella recalled. From those early beginnings, the court has become not only a place of competition but also one of growth, leadership, and faith.
Ella’s competitive edge comes from growing up in the stands, watching her older sister play. “I grew up going to all of my sister’s games, and it inspired me to work to be better than she was,” she said. However, her biggest influences have always been her parents. “They both know how determined I am and support me in every way they can.”
As a leader on the team, Ella makes it a priority to foster energy and unity among her teammates. “The team chemistry this year is great. It feels like we are all one big family, and I can’t wait to grow even more as a team.” Ella’s leadership role also extends to preparing her teammates spiritually. “I make sure the team has energy and that they are ready spiritually by reading them a Bible verse before each game.”
Her sports career has had its challenges, but Ella’s faith has kept her grounded. “I have battled multiple injuries throughout my career, but I have learned that it is all in God’s plan and I have to trust Him,” she said. A standout moment in her career came last season, when she was named Player of the Game and set a career-high in points against Riverside.
Looking ahead, Ella plans to attend Southern Nazarene University, where she will play college softball and study pre-physical therapy. “In five years, I will hopefully be finished with college and starting my successful career as a Physical Therapist. However, I see myself sticking close to sports because of how much I love physical fitness.”
Ella credits her parents, coaches, and best friend Campbell Garbarino for shaping her journey, and she always keeps her faith at the forefront. “Thanks be to God for giving me the ability to honor him through all of these sports.” As her time at Elk City winds down, Ella reflects with pride: “I am most proud of my growth throughout all of the seasons.”
Her parting advice to younger players? “Never give up and know that hard work pays off.”
