Alissa Katelina Pili, an Indigenous and Samoan-American standout, has made significant strides in college basketball, playing for the Utah Utes in the Pac-12 Conference after beginning her collegiate career with the USC Trojans. Born in Anchorage, Alaska, Pili’s athletic journey was influenced early on by her family, including her brother Brandon, a former USC football player and current Miami Dolphin. She showcased her versatility and determination by participating in football as the only girl in her league before transitioning to organized basketball at the age of eight.

During her high school years at Dimond High School in Anchorage, Pili’s multifaceted talent led her team to two state championships in basketball and set her apart as a three-time Alaska Gatorade Player of the Year. Beyond basketball, her high school career was decorated with 13 state titles across various sports, underscoring her remarkable athletic prowess.

Pili’s transition to college basketball was seamless, making an immediate impact at USC and continuing her excellence at Utah. She has been recognized for her outstanding performance on the court, earning titles such as Pac-12 Freshman of the Year and, after transferring to Utah, the prestigious Pac-12 Player of the Year. Her contributions were instrumental in leading Utah to a share of the conference regular-season title, and her impressive averages of 20.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game in her first season at Utah have solidified her reputation as a formidable player in college basketball.