Scripps National Spelling Bee: Zaila Avant-Garde wins in Louisiana

As one of the best 8th grade basketball players in the United States, Zaila Avant-garde must be well aware of the concept of “survival and progress”. Now, the 14-year-old from Harvey, Louisiana, knows just what it’s like. To have one shining moment. In the final round, Zilla beat 12-year-old Chitra Thomala of Frisco, Texas, by correctly spelling the word “muraya” – a genus of tropical Asian and Australian trees that have foliage and flowers. Winning the 2021 Scripps National Spelling Bee title and $50,000 first place prize at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida. In the process, she became the first resident of Louisiana and the first African American to win the title in the 93-year history of the competition. Last year’s event was canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic, and this year’s qualifiers were all virtual, so the contenders who made it to Thursday night’s finals appeared on stage for the first time – although many have done so in previous years. Three Guinness World Records for dribbling multiple basketballs at once. She hopes to one day play in the WNBA. In winning the Spelling Bee title, the ability she has shown in keeping calm and coming on despite pressure must have served her well.