Priscila Varela '21 Recruiting Profile

My name is Priscila Varela. I am 16 years old and I have just begun my junior year of high school at Mesquite High School in Gilbert, Arizona. I don’t come from a traditionally basketball-playing family, that being the reason for only launching my basketball career nearly 3 years ago in 8th grade. Since then it was love at first sight and I haven’t been able to let go of the sport. 

I moved from Angola (located in south western Africa) about 4 years ago with my mom and my younger brother, Carlos Varela. It was a big move and took over 24 hours to complete but we are happy with the move. Today I live in Chandler, Arizona with my mom, Maria Mambuco, my brother, Carlos, and my stepdad, Brian Mitchell. 

The people that I have around me such as coaches, parents, friends, and teachers, consider me an athletic player and a happy person with straight A’s and a work ethic that will take me far. I am also considering starting track & field this school year as many who have seen me play comment on my incredible speed on both defense and offense.

I’ve grown up watching my mom work early mornings and late nights but still be there for a bedtime kiss. She is the walking example of something she has instilled in me which is that hard work beats anything. Being a copy of her, I am willing to work to any limit to reach my goals without stomping on or hurting anyone on the way.

I am extremely determined to play basketball on the collegiate level and to hopefully play overseas later.