Deep Blue - Kaylee Smiler

For most student athletes going to college means a new beginning, often far from home. For Kaylee Smiler that physical distance is over 7,000 miles where she shares her gift of hoop and dance from the Maori culture.

[@randythomas219]

What a fantastic young woman who represents her family, neighborhood, country, and BYU so very well on and off the court. It is fun to watch her play and point her out to my grandchildren for her skill, joy shown on the court and her sportsmanship. Thanks for the video, it was awesome!

[@BYUtv-SportsNation]

Thank you Randy for your kind response. We are glad you enjoyed the video!

[@danielrigby7468]

Excellent video. Would love to see more deep blues about the female athletes. Have enjoyed watching Smiler play this year.

[@joelharris3389]

love this!

[@arniep6999]

Wow, this is awesome Kaylee, congratulations. You carry the mana of your whanau and our culture so well. Arohanui to you and all your whanau. Stay safe and keep striving xxx Uncle Arnie

[@atomicinjun]

Sometimes, your heart just sings with joy. Such a great story.

[@stevendorsey4882]

Awesome woman and family, and ball player. Way to rep NZ and the Moari culture and BYU basketball!

[@nathanaeladams9560]

Deep Blue does it again! I guess it’s easy to make such moving stories, given the quality of student athletes at BYU. What incredible humility, faith and example!

[@jeremyhodge6216]

I know she had a good experience at BYU 😌👌💯

[@moanahopoate-sitake2116]

Kapai kotiro! Love to see the Māori girl strength. Good on you!

[@boydnuttall9031]

I've watched Kaylee Smiler play for BYU ever since she started here. She always plays with enthusiasm and of course, a great smile. She is a very good shooter and usually defends the opposing teams better scorers. I had no idea about her background and this video makes sense of who she is. Thanks for putting this video out for us. Keep shooting the three's Kaylee!

[@manapolynesia768]

Kapanapana! The costumes look amazing. Love seeing the mana in this wahine. So glad you are alive and safe and still dancing. Much love from DC. Maybe you need to come play for the Mystics!

[@curtistoone4144]

Glad she is a Coug!! What a wonderful woman.

[@orlandotocano1323]

I wish I had a family like that

[@righdowncharlie]

I went to BYUH with her Dad. Great video though it makes me feel really old. 😂