By Caroline Cooper
Austin Sports Journal

Senior guard Jillian Shirk is the heartbeat of the Austin High girls basketball team.

On Friday night, in the Lady Maroons’ District 26-5A opener at Del Valle, Shirk reached a milestone with her 1,000th point with the team’s second field goal in the Lady Maroons’ 69-38 win over the Cardinals at Del Valle High School.

It was a moment that capped years of steady growth, preparation and leadership for the Austin High girls basketball team.

Entering a senior year in any program brings a mix of emotions, reflection and lessons learned along the way. For Shirk, those experiences have shaped not only her game on the court but also her role as one of Austin High’s leaders.

“A key motivator for me over the past four years has been my mom,” she said. “She has always had a huge impact on my basketball career and knows the game very well. The lessons and pointers she has given me have helped me continue to improve. Her encouragement and confidence in me keep me motivated to be the best I can be.”

A three-year varsity player, Shirk is embracing her final season with confidence and appreciation for the journey that led to Friday’s milestone.

“I’m really excited going into my senior year because it’s the last year I get to play with some of my best friends,” she said. “I’ve learned that putting time and effort into preparation is what sets us up for success. We’ve all been working really hard, and if we continue to do that, I believe we’ll achieve our goals this season.”

Head coach Kevin Richardson has watched that growth develop year by year.

“Jillian has truly grown, not only as a player but as a leader,” Richardson said. “Her first year, I don’t think she realized how good she could be. She’s a hard worker and puts effort into everything she does.”

Shirk scores her 1,000th career point

Leadership at the core

A strong senior class plays a critical role in the development for Austin High. The Lady Maroons are off to am 11-5 start. Richardson emphasized how valuable this group has been for Austin High.

“Since I’ve been here, this is the largest group of seniors we’ve had,” Richardson said. “They help model our expectations on a daily basis. Our seniors do a great job of being present and available for younger players, whether it’s with classes, schedules or basketball.”

Leadership, Richardson said, is required not just early in the season but throughout the year.

“We rely on them to adapt, adjust and recognize what’s happening on the court,” he said. “Our schedule is always tough, and co-hosting the BeYOUtiful Tournament with Westlake means we’ll face some of the toughest competition in the state right away. We’ll have to be ready from the start.”

Over the past year, Richardson has seen Jillian continue to step into that role.

“She leads by example,” he said. “She brings the same energy and effort to every practice and game. She’s become more vocal, and while she may not be the loudest, everyone listens. She’s earned that respect through her work ethic.”

For Shirk, leadership means setting the standard for those around her.

“Being a role model for the younger girls means leading by example,” she said. “Whether it’s drills, games or practice, I want my effort level to be something others can replicate.”

Ending on a high note

As Jillian closes an important chapter in her basketball career, her impact on the Lady Maroons extends well beyond Friday night’s milestone.

Looking ahead, one event stands out during her final season.

“I’m most excited for the BeYOUtiful Tournament,” she said. “Every year it’s a lot of fun. The whole program comes together, teachers and students come out to support, and no matter the results, it always feels like a success.”

Westlake head coach Vickie Benson started the tournament in 2012 while she was coach at Bowie High School in 2012. This year’s tournament was Nov. 13-15 and Austin High went 3-2 with wins against Fredericksburg, El Paso Coronado and Fort Worth Boswell.

Building team chemistry

Team chemistry is something Richardson said must be rebuilt every season as new players enter the program.

“We’re constantly working on it,” he said. “It can be challenging when you spend so much time together. There were moments when things were tough, but they stayed together. There’s always camaraderie and joy in seeing others succeed.”

As the Class of 2026 seniors prepare for the remainder of the season, Richardson hopes their work is rewarded.

“I’m most looking forward to seeing this group continue to grow, compete and enjoy the season,” he said. “They deserve success on and off the court. I hope they build memories and bonds that last a lifetime and know they’ll always have a family here. That’s what Loyal Forever means.”

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