Senior Ashley Gray approached her mark on the basketball gym floor of Wildcat Arena on Jan. 25. After having just transformed from a basketball player to a Homecoming court maid, Gray stood in front of the crowd with her father and waited to find out who won Winter Homecoming Queen. They announced her name to Gray’s astonishment.

“I was really surprised,” said Gray. “It was an awesome way to end the night even though we had just lost to Rogers.”

After falling to Rogers 61-58, the Lady Wildcats cheered on their teammate and queen as principal Dr. Danny Brackett placed the crown upon her head.

Little did the crowd know Gray was wearing an unusual pair of shoes beneath her gleaming gown.

“I wore tennis shoes to be comfortable,” said Gray. “I had on a poofy dress so I wanted to comfortable.”

After the game against Rogers, a saddened Gray sat while her sister, a hairstylist, prepared Gray’s make-up and hair for the crowning.

“I had to play in the game and then quickly get ready for the crowning ceremony,” said Gray.

Though the team had just lost, Gray thought the night bittersweet.

“It was bittersweet because we had just lost to Rogers,” said Gray. “Winning is something I can add to my list of senior memories.”