Shooting star Josie Harper shines brightly in state's eyes

When it came time for state officials to choose a Washington Interscholastic Activities Association Athlete of the Week for girls’ 2B basketball, the decision was pretty much a slam dunk in mid-December.

La Conner’s Josie Harper was the clear choice.

The senior point guard helped lead the high school Lady Braves to convincing wins against three larger schools, opening the ’22-23 campaign with an impressive 7-2 record despite playing a tough early non-conference schedule.

Harper scored a game-high 30 points in a home triumph over 4A Jackson, tallied 24 points in a key road victory at 1A Blaine and netted 17 points when La Conner defeated 4A Skyline at Landy James Gym.

If her long-range shooting and ability to knife through traffic in the paint seems almost surgical at times, that’s no coincidence. A 3.99 student (4.0 is a perfect grade point average), Harper intends to pursue a degree in medicine, where she plans to be a surgeon, along with playing basketball in college.

An all-state selection with the 2022 La Conner 2B volleyball title winners, Harper has transitioned seamlessly to the basketball court, serving as a team captain.

The WIAA, which governs extracurricular activities among the state’s schools, weekly joins Gesa Credit Union in recognizing student-athletes for outstanding performances and impactful contributions in their communities.

Athletes of the Week receive a letter of recognition from the WIAA executive director, a certificate of achievement and gift card to DICK’S Sporting Goods courtesy of Gesa Credit Union.

All students in good academic standing at their schools are eligible to receive the award. Students may win the award once in an academic year.