Basketball is not just a sport for Morina Bojka; it's a passion that gives her peace amidst the chaos of life. The American-Albanian basketball star has faced numerous challenges along her journey, from the streets of small towns in America to the professional courts of Albania. Her story is one of dedication, hard work, and the unwavering belief that success comes to those who refuse to give up.

Discovering basketball

Morina’s love for sports began at an early age, trying her hand at different activities like soccer and softball before falling in love with basketball. "I tried a bunch of different things, but basketball was just my favorite," she recalls. It was more than just a hobby; it was her escape. "Basketball gives me peace. I have a lot of stuff going on all the time, but basketball just lets me unwind while still being focused," she explains.

Basketball became the anchor in her life, helping her stay grounded and centered. "It's something that I'm good at, it's exercise, and it's healthy. I'm really competitive, so it's something that challenges me constantly," she adds with a smile.

A father’s inspiration

While her basketball journey was self-driven, her inspiration came from her father, a man who overcame incredible odds. "My dad is my biggest inspiration. He came from nothing, left overseas when he was six months old, and his parents had nothing. But he worked hard, put himself through college and law school, and eventually opened his own law firm," Morina says proudly.

Despite never playing basketball himself, her father taught her the value of hard work, discipline, and the importance of pushing beyond comfort zones. "Everything he didn’t have when he was growing up, he made sure to give us. He's always been so positive and pushed me to achieve things I never thought I could."

College basketball: a time of growth

Morina’s basketball career took a significant leap when she joined the NCAA Division III at Mount St. Mary College. Her college experience wasn't without challenges, but it was transformative. “My first season was a bit of a culture shock,” she admits. The pace and physicality of the game were unlike anything she had experienced before. “But after a while, you just get used to it.”

Her coach, Colleen Ames, played a pivotal role in Morina’s development. "She kind of gave me the reins and was like, 'You and I have the same goal, and we’re going to help each other.' We worked off each other really well, holding each other accountable," Morina recalls. This accountability and mutual respect allowed her to blossom not just as a player, but also as a leader. “College is where I learned how to be a leader,” she says.

During her time at Mount St. Mary, she led her team to multiple victories and won numerous accolades. In her fifth year, extended due to COVID-19, she helped her team secure the conference championship, earning Player of the Year honors along the way. "Winning the championship felt amazing. All the hard work, the 6 AM workouts, the sprints, the sacrifices; it was all worth it," she beams.

COVID challenges: a test of determination

Like many athletes, Morina faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. The season was disrupted, and she had to adapt to the changing landscape. “We couldn’t even go to the gym at times. Practices were minimal, and everything was so cautious because of the regulations,” she recalls. Despite the setbacks, she remained focused on her goals.

"I didn’t want to graduate without achieving my goal of winning the conference championship," she says. That determination paid off when, in 2022, she and her teammates won the title. “We were in the gym two hours before practice, and everyone was on the same page. It was the best basketball experience of my life.”

Professional basketball in Albania: a new challenge

In 2023, Morina took her talents overseas, signing with SK Tirana in Albania’s top basketball league. Her ambition was clear from the start. "When I met my coach, I asked her, 'Who’s the best team in the league?' She mentioned a team that had been winning for a couple of years straight. I told her, 'This year, we’re winning it.' And we did!" Morina exclaims proudly.

The team she referred to, Flamurtari Vlore, had been undefeated in finals on their home court for years. Morina and her team not only beat them but did so in dramatic fashion. "It was neck and neck the whole game. I hit a threepointer with 12 seconds left, and that sealed it," she recounts.

Building a winning team

Morina attributes the success of SK Tirana to the chemistry and dedication of her teammates. “We had a girl who was so fast that no one could keep up with her, a point guard in her 40s who made perfect passes, and a center who, despite being my height (about 5’10) was one of the best in the league,” she explains.

The team wasn’t the tallest or the most physically imposing, but they were fast, coordinated, and played with heart. "We just ran every single team out of the gym. They couldn’t keep up with us," she says with a grin.

The future: new horizons

As Morina enters her second season with SK Tirana, she remains focused and ambitious. "Our season is underway, and I’m excited for what’s to come. Last year, we lost our first regular season game by 40 points. But I think, as we build chemistry, we’re going to be a really strong team, just like we were last year," she says optimistically.

For Morina, basketball is more than just a game; it’s a journey of growth, both on and off the court. "Basketball is a really mental game. You have to be strong, work on your weaknesses, and just stick with it," she advises young players who look up to her.

A legacy of hard work

Morina Bojka’s story is one of perseverance, resilience, and the belief that hard work pays off. From her humble beginnings in small-town America to winning championships on foreign soil, she has proven that success comes to those who are willing to fight for it. Her journey is far from over, but one thing is certain: Morina’s passion for basketball will continue to inspire those who follow in her footsteps.