Three knee surgeries could have convinced Tarvaris James to walk away from sports. Instead, each setback gave the Ada High School senior another reason to fight his way back.

Now, James is back where he wants to be — battling under the basket as a forward on the basketball court and testing himself in the 200-meter dash and high jump in track. After enduring surgeries, rehabilitation and the uncertainty that comes with serious injuries, simply being able to compete again means more than it once did.

The long road back has also changed the way James approaches athletics.

“Don’t take anything for granted and go 100 percent at all times,” James said.

Working through injuries required patience and determination, but James said having the right people around him made the difficult stretches easier. One of the biggest lessons he has learned through sports is the importance of a strong support system.

“Overcoming adversity is easier with a supportive team,” James said.

That support has come from teammates and coaches, including Coach Caufield, who has made an impact on James beyond basketball.

“He makes talking to him easy and is supportive and pushes us to do our best on and off the floor,” James said.

Former teammate Miilan Riley also helped shape James’ understanding of leadership and what it means to be part of a team. Riley’s example encouraged James to trust himself and the people around him.

“He was a true leader on and off the court,” James said. “He showed me what being part of a team should look like and [how to] trust myself as well as others. He created a family atmosphere for us.”

James has found that same example and encouragement at home. He points to his dad as the person who inspires him most, particularly because of the work ethic and perseverance he has demonstrated.

“He is a great role model for me,” James said. “He has shown me great work ethic and taught me to never give up.”

James is also grateful for both of his parents and the support they provided throughout his injuries and recoveries.

“Mom and Pops [have] always [pushed] me and [supported] me through all of my injuries,” James said.

Three knee surgeries could have changed the direction of James’ athletic career. Instead, the road back has given him a greater appreciation for every practice, game, meet and opportunity to compete — and a reminder to give everything he has while those opportunities are there.