The Jewish Link of New Jersey and Gotham Burger would like to recognize 14-year-old Yakira (Kiki) Keiser as this week’s sportstar of the week. Keiser is a vital part of the Noam Lady Knights, a team that is the heavy favorite to complete a perfect season and win the championship this Sunday. She recently helped the Lady Knights win an AAU tournament. Keiser already captured several Bergen Broncos, CMEK and MGBL championships.
A long time teammate and friend told The Jewish Link that the best thing about being on Keiser’s team is that, “On or off of the court she is always there to help her teammates.”
When asked about Keiser, Noam Coach Ariella Herman told The JLNJ, “I am always so impressed with how hard Yakira works to improve her skills and throughout every game. She never gives up. She is a role model for other players.”
Yakira, having had the pleasure of watching you grow and develop as a basketball player over the past four seasons of MGBL. I would like to echo the comments of your teammate and coach. It has been an absolute pleasure to watch you play ball.
Who would you say are your role models?
My parents are my role models because they inspire me every day to work harder and always encourage me to do my best.
Who is your favorite professional athlete and why?
Lawrence Taylor is my favorite athlete because he changed the way defense is played in football forever.
What is your pre-game routine?
I don’t really have a pre-game routine but my after-game routine consists of me going to Baskin Robbins and getting the largest ice cream.
What is your earliest sport memory?
My earliest sports memory was winning the MGBL championship in third grade with four of my best friends on my team.
What is the funniest thing that happened to you while playing ball?
A couple of weeks ago, during my Yeshivat Noam tournament. I had an amazing swoosh shot that even got the other team cheering…but that might be due to the fact that it was in their basket. It’s OK, we all laughed it off and won anyway.
What is your favorite sports memory?
My favorite sports memory is when I went undefeated in MGBL and got MVP in sixth grade.
What is your favorite thing to do when you are not playing sports?
I love hanging out with my friends and going to Starbucks!
What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?
I get to take my friend (you know who you are) to Gotham Burger with the many things I can get with my $10 gift card.
The Jewish Link and Gotham Burger Sportstar of the Week will receive a $10 gift certificate to Gotham Burger. Please send nominees for next week’s Jewish Link and Gotham Burger Sportstar of the Week to [email protected].
