Sports Locker • January/February 2025 • Adisen Wren

Southern Boone High School senior, Adisen Wren, isn’t just a player; she’s a piece of her school’s athletic legacy. A basketball guard, as well as a middle infielder in softball, Adisen has spent her life with a ball in hand and her family in the stands. Her dad, Damon, coached her in basketball for much of her life, and her grandfather, Coach David Gill, once led Southern Boone’s basketball program—his name still graces the court she plays on. “I play for myself, my team, and my family. But above all, I play for my dad. He’s been my coach, my motivator, and my biggest inspiration since kindergarten.”

Adisen’s family is rooted in athletics. Her mother, Sarah, excelled in basketball, softball, and track. Her cousin, Jersee Wren, a former high school star, now plays college basketball at William Woods University. And even her younger siblings—Drew, a sophomore, and Drake, a seventh-grader— share her passion for sports. Playing with Drew has added a special layer to Adisen’s high school experience. “This past softball season, Drew was my first baseman. It made the season unforgettable.” The sisterly connection continues on the basketball court this year, where they’ll share more moments together.

Basketball holds a special place in Adisen’s heart. From watching her dad coach at Jefferson City High School to competing in Southern Boone’s electrifying court-warming games, her passion is fueled by the energy of the sport. “The Hallsville game last season was insane. The gym was packed, the crowd was wild, and the entire community showed up. Winning that game felt surreal.”

Her success, however, isn’t limited to basketball. In softball, Adisen broke two school records for stolen bases and at-bats in her senior season, earning multiple all-district and regional honors. Her quick thinking and speed as a slap hitter have made her a force on the field. “I know the games well. In softball, I use my speed to beat out infield hits, and in basketball, I’m quick and shifty, making it hard for defenders to keep up.”

Adisen’s athletic journey hasn’t come without challenges. Growing up in a family with such a rich sports history has been both a blessing and a weight. “Living up to expectations as a coach’s kid and my grandpa’s grandchild has been hard. But my family’s support keeps me grounded. They’re at every game, cheering me on, win or lose.”

Her community plays an equally vital role. Southern Boone’s support creates an atmosphere unlike any other. “It’s special when people I don’t even know tell me they’re looking forward to the next game. This community stands behind its teams no matter what.” As a leader, Adisen strives to guide her teammates with grace. Her personal motto, drawn from Philippians 4:13, reminds her of the strength she finds in faith and family. “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.”

Off the court, Adisen shines academically, taking dual-credit classes and excelling in writing. With 24 college credits under her belt, she plans to pursue a nursing degree after graduation while staying close to home and her tight-knit family. Reflecting on her high school career, Adisen hopes to leave a legacy of effort and heart. “I want to be remembered as someone who gave 100% and did anything for her teammates.”

As she heads into her senior basketball season, Adisen’s goals are set: improve her ball handling, lead her team, and earn more honors. But her legacy is already secure—woven into Southern Boone’s history like the threads of a well-worn basketball net. In Adisen’s world, the games are far from over. She’s still stealing bases, hitting her stride, and setting the pace. And whether it’s on the court or in the field, the Wren family name continues to soar, proving that when it comes to Adisen, the ball is always in good hands.