Averi Gilliam.

WOOD RIVER - Averi Gilliam, a senior at East Alton-Wood River High School, has been in basketball for many years. Gilliam has played the sport since seventh grade and credits her leadership, kindness, encouragement, teamwork, and focus as key qualities leading to this honor.

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She is a Midwest Members Credit Union Female Athlete Of The Month for the Oilers.

Athlete of the Month is sponsored by

Gilliam’s basketball career has been shaped by the support of her mother and coach Lindsey Perz, who coached her in previous years.

Current coach Joe Sears also plays a role in her development as an athlete.

“I have played since the seventh grade, and my favorite thing about the sport is the overall environment of the sport,” Gilliam said. She added that her involvement in school sports has helped her grow into a leadership role and contributed to her personal development.

In addition to basketball, Gilliam participates in tennis and track.

She plans to continue her basketball career at Lewis and Clark Community College.

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