Nya Jaquez was a courageous teenager from Yelm, Washington, who left a lasting legacy through her resilience and spirit. Born on September 3, 2000, she attended Yelm High School and faced cancer with remarkable determination. Nya passed away on October 16, 2016, but her memory continues to inspire many in her community.

Nyastrong Warrior’s Academy is more than a basketball program—it's a legacy of resilience, empowerment, and community. Inspired by the remarkable story of Nya Jaquez, a courageous teenager from Yelm who faced cancer with unwavering determination, our academy was established to honor her memory and spirit.

Originally known as the Yelm Warriors, we embraced the name Nyastrong in 2019 to reflect the strength, perseverance, and heart that Nya exemplified. Her journey reminds us of the power of teamwork and the importance of creating opportunities for young athletes to grow—on and off the court.

Based in Thurston County, we welcome athletes from Yelm, Rainier, Tenino, Tumwater, and beyond. Our mission is to foster personal growth, instill values of discipline and integrity, and provide a supportive space where young players can thrive, just as Nya inspired us to do.

Nyastrong Warrior’s Academy is a celebration of resilience and the belief that every young athlete has the potential to overcome challenges and leave their mark on the world.