Carrboro High School Senior Sets the Tone for Young Female Basketball Players: Yazmin Paisant

COMMUNITY NEWS

By Courtney Howell
Correspondent

CARRBORO – After four years as a Jaguar, Yazmin Paisant concludes her high school basketball career as a starter, team leader, and a young woman who has grown. Leaving behind a good example for those remaining on the team for the future. Throughout her time on the court, she not only contributed with her skill set and performance but also helped foster a culture of commitment, growth, and teamwork, inspiring those who will follow in her footsteps to continue striving for success, both athletically and personally.

From days of uncertainty to becoming a confident leader who believes in herself, Paisant has experienced a significant mindset shift. Her growth has not only strengthened her own abilities but has also empowered her teammates, particularly first-year students, to reach their potential. She has helped her team embrace the positives of collaboration, the power of accountability, and the deeper meaning of leadership. By encouraging others, lifting those who are struggling, and demonstrating strength through example, Paisant exemplifies how true leadership inspires and elevates everyone around her.

“Coaching Yazmin has been really rewarding, especially as a first-year head coach. I’ve seen the most growth in her leadership. Specifically, with the way she holds herself accountable as well as her teammates,” said Head Coach, Davina Mounds.

After the team lost multiple starters last season and had to determine who would step into those roles, Paisant emerged as one of the newest starters. With the team no longer able to rely on past leadership or the unspoken structures that had guided them, she seized the opportunity to become the leader the team needed. Her presence and dedication helped the team adapt and maintain success, ensuring stability and progress for the entire roster.

“This team had to build an identity around discipline, accountability, hard work, and resilience. We focused on becoming a group that competes every day, communicates, and supports one another. It wasn’t about replacing individuals, but about everyone stepping into bigger roles and trusting the process,” said Coach Mounds. 

Photo courtesy of Jasmin Paisant

While Paisant’s new role has shaped—and continues to shape—the team, it has also been a key factor in boosting each player’s confidence. By staying calm and composed under pressure, her example naturally inspires her teammates to do the same. This composure fosters reliability, strengthens trust among the players, and contributes to the team’s overall growth and cohesion.

“One thing that helped me with the new way of things would be learning how to let go of what I used to have, so I could accept what I have now. Plus, me and the coach and I have had numerous talks about our goals and expectations for each season. I learnt about her and how she coaches, then she learnt about me and how I play. I think that the way Coach Mounds cares and takes time out of her day also pours a lot into how I was able to get the hang of things as well,” said Paisant.

As Paisant concludes her final season as a high school basketball player, she leaves behind a legacy of leadership, encouragement, and accountability. Coach Mounds has high hopes for her, recognizing that she has proven herself to be a young woman of exceptional character—treating those around her with kindness and integrity that extend far beyond the basketball court.

“One thing that I am proud of this season is how I learnt that self-confidence is the key to success, and having someone who believes like Coach Mounds believes in me really helps more than you know. This season taught me that no matter how hard things get, you have to push through it all; the only person who can stop you from being great is yourself. And you have to get out of your own way to make a path for you,” said Paisant.

With plans to attend an HBCU and pursue a career in law, Yazmin Paisant continues to hold basketball close as she takes the next steps in her life. No matter where her journey leads, the skills and lessons she gained through the game are transferable to every aspect of life. She carries those lessons with her, grateful for the sport she began and played throughout all four years of her high school career.