OU’s Zya Vann shares her journey of faith, family, and purpose on and off the court.

In this episode of Purpose NIL, host James M. Rink engages with Zaya Vann, a University of Oklahoma women's basketball player, as she shares her journey of balancing academics, athletics, and personal growth. Zaya discusses her family legacy in basketball, her aspirations to play in the WNBA, and the core feelings that drive her purpose. The conversation delves into the impact of her grandfather's passing, the importance of mental strength, and how she aims to inspire others while defining her own purpose through actions and feelings.

takeaways

• Zaya balances a demanding schedule of academics and basketball.
• Family legacy plays a significant role in Zaya's life and aspirations.
• Core feelings like love, peace, and gratitude guide Zaya's actions.
• Zaya aims to inspire younger generations through her journey.
• The importance of mental strength in sports and life.
• Defining purpose involves identifying both feelings and actions.
• Zaya's grandfather was a major influence in her life.
• The power of community and support during times of grief.
• Zaya's commitment to being a loyal teammate and leader.
• Living a meaningful life involves understanding one's purpose.

Sound Bites

• "I love it and I love what I do"
• "I want to be a loyal person"
• "We all have a purpose here"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Zya Vann's Journey

01:11 Balancing Academics and Athletics

02:41 Carrying on a Family Legacy

03:13 Aspiring for the WNBA

04:16 Core Feelings and Their Impact

06:15 Grief and Reflection

07:33 Bringing Peace to the Court

09:18 Inspiring Others Through Basketball

09:45 Defining Purpose and NIL Opportunities

10:56 Identifying Core Actions

11:15 The Power of Strengthening

12:48 The Joy of Play

13:27 Overcoming Challenges

14:16 Influencing Others

14:50 Commitment to Goals

15:20 Navigating Grief and Purpose

17:03 The Importance of Pivoting

17:38 Finding Meaning in Life

20:13 Conclusion and Reflections

Recorded on September 25, 2025

Zya Vann in Norman, OK

James M. Rink in Nashville, TN