Gisella Maul, In Her Words: Why I Chose Cal

Hello Cal fans! My name is Gisella Maul, and I am a senior on the Cal women’s basketball team. I am originally from Cedar Park, Texas, and basketball has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember.

My family has supported my dreams from day one. They have always been there for me, coming to my games and encouraging me through every stage of my journey. My dad played sports in high school, and my mom did not, but both have played an important role in making me the person and athlete I am today.

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My family taught me the importance of working hard, staying consistent, staying positive, leading others, and trusting in God’s plan, even when I didn't fully understand it at the time.

I first started playing basketball when I was four years old. My older siblings were playing, and because I looked up to them, I wanted to play too. I also played tennis and ran track growing up, but by middle school, I knew it was time to focus completely on basketball. In eighth grade, colleges began showing interest in me. That's when I first realized basketball could let me compete at the collegiate level and get a great education. From then on, I became even more committed to developing my game and seeing how far basketball could take me.

My journey has included some difficult moments. During my junior year of high school, I tore my ACL. I decided to graduate early so I could begin rehab in a collegiate environment. I eventually enrolled at the University of Texas at Austin for my first year, but complications from my injury continued during that season.

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That period of my life tested me physically and mentally. There was a point when I was not sure whether I would ever fully recover. I experienced many ups and downs, and doubt crept in at times. At the same time, I was not enjoying my overall experience at Texas, so I decided to enter the transfer portal and find a place that would be a better fit for me.

Cal contacted me shortly after I entered the portal, but my relationship with the program began earlier. The coaches had conducted a home visit with me when I was in high school, before I committed to Texas. When I entered the portal, I narrowed my choices to about three schools, but Cal was always at the top of my list.

Once I visited, I knew there was something special about Cal. The entire coaching staff was genuine with me, and that was one of the most important things I was looking for. Leaving my family was not easy, so I needed to know I would be surrounded by coaches, teammates, and staff who truly cared about me on and off the court. Cal felt like a home away from home. The coaches and players welcomed me immediately, and I could tell the program had the supportive environment I needed. I also loved the academics Cal offered because earning a great degree has always been important to me.

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The move to the ACC during my first year added another exciting element to the opportunity, and I also enjoyed the environment surrounding Berkeley. My experience at Cal has been even better than I imagined. I am grateful for the amount of support we receive both athletically and academically.

Being a student-athlete can be demanding, but having people around you who want to see you succeed in every area makes a major difference. I am studying American Studies, and my goals extend beyond my playing career. I want to become a coach when I finish playing basketball, and I also hope to start my own business.

Knowing what I want to accomplish in the future motivates me to work hard now. I want to learn as much as possible from every coach, teammate, practice, game, and experience because I know those lessons will help prepare me to lead others one day.

My teammates would probably describe me as an “energy bunny.” I am someone who is willing to run through a brick wall for my team and do whatever it takes to win. When Cal fans watch me play, they can expect toughness, energy, and effort at all times. Those are qualities I can control every time I step onto the court. Since coming to Cal, my game has grown tremendously.

My biggest area of growth has been my confidence and belief in my abilities, but I have also developed as an all-around player. Right now, one of my main areas of focus is becoming a stronger vocal leader. I want to communicate more, encourage my teammates, and use my voice to make a greater impact on the team. My personal goal is to become more consistent, continue improving in every aspect of my game, and be the best teammate I can possibly be.

When my time at Cal is finished, I want my legacy to be that I worked extremely hard, gave everything I had, and never quit, no matter the obstacles in front of me.

Away from basketball, I am adventurous and love exploring new places and trying new foods. Cooking is one of my favorite hobbies, and I enjoy experimenting with different meals whenever I can.

One quote that has always stayed with me is Kevin Durant’s: “Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard.” That quote reflects how I approach basketball and life. At the end of the day, I can feel good about myself as long as I know I worked as hard as anyone around me and gave my best effort.

To all the Cal fans, I am excited to have you back in Haas Pavilion. I love the energy you bring, and your support makes a real difference when we are competing. I look forward to continuing to represent Cal and showing you everything we have worked for.

Go Bears!