Eighth-grader Jordyn Palmer has basketball acumen beyond her years and is already making a big impact on the varsity team at the Westtown School, writes Aaron Carter for The Philadelphia Inquirer. 

The 6-foot-1 Palmer exhibits elite athleticism combined with a deft touch and exquisite footwork. Last week, she led her team with 19 points, seven rebounds, five steals, and two blocks as it beat Friends’ Central, 75-35, to capture the Friends Schools League title. 

The days are long for the Oxford resident. She wakes up at 5:30 AM, and her grandfather drives her to a bus stop in Avondale. There, a Westtown van picks her up and takes her to school. She often doesn’t return home until 6 PM.

At just 14 years old, Palmer’s abilities are undeniable, but something extra that can lead her to the very top comes from her ability to remain calm amid chaos. 

“All the trash-talking and doing the most, I don’t really like that,” she said. “I like to stay focused on the game and locked in throughout.” 

Palmer also has the advantage of being trained by Westtown coach Fran Burbidge, who has coached basketball greats Elena Delle Donne and Breanna Stewart, among many others, during his four-decades-long coaching career. He believes that Palmer has what it takes to go the distance. 

“She already possesses so many of the positive intangibles that make the really good ones,” said Burbidge. “She doesn’t have to do anything other than be herself.” 

Read more about Jordyn Palmer in The Philadelphia Inquirer. 

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