Warren senior guard Ny’Asia Short realized that time wasn’t on her side to showcase her game.

After averaging 6.0 points last season, Short wanted to make her mark like her older sisters Niquera and Niquaysia did at Zion-Benton.

“When I was younger, they used to beat me all the time, but that’s what pushed me to get better,” Short said. “Competing against them taught me how to work hard, stay confident and not back down from challenges.

“I watched how serious they were about improving and how much time they put into their game, and that motivated me to do the same.”

During the offseason, the 5-foot-6 Short worked on fine-tuning different elements of her game to become a consistent factor on both offense and defense.

“I got so many shots up after school and was extremely motivated for this year,” she said.

Warren’s Ny’Asia Short (3) drives against Stevenson during a North Suburban Conference game in Lincolnshire on Friday, Jan. 9, 2026. (Talia Sprague / News-Sun)

Short’s development is one of the bright spots in a tough season, particularly in the North Suburban Conference, for the Blue Devils (4-15, 1-6). She’s averaging 14.7 points, 5.0 rebounds and 2.0 steals.

“It’s inspiring to look back and realize that trying to keep up with them helped shape who I am today and the goals I have for my future,” she said.

Warren coach Jennifer Swanson said Short has turned into a well-rounded offensive player.

“Her shot has improved a lot,” Swanson said. “She has a good 3-point game and is able to use both hands when driving to the basket and finish with both hands.”

Warren’s Ny’Asia Short (3) puts up a shot during a North Suburban Conference game against Stevenson in Lincolnshire on Friday, Jan. 9, 2026. (Talia Sprague / News-Sun)

Warren junior guard Alia Pyrek said Short is making smarter decisions with the basketball too.

“Her averages are up because she’s reading the floor better, taking higher-percentage shots and staying aggressive the entire game,” Pyrek said. “She also improved defensively and does a better job of impacting the game even when she’s not scoring, whether that’s rebounding, hustling or setting up her teammates.”

Pyrek said Short’s impact extends beyond statistics on a team with no other seniors.

“Asia has really stepped up as a leader this year,” Pyrek said. “On the court, she communicates constantly, keeps everyone focused and leads by example with her work ethic. Off the court, she stays positive and encourages everyone, especially during tough moments. She brings energy and confidence to the team.”

Warren’s Ny’Asia Short (3) pushes the ball up the court during a North Suburban Conference game against Stevenson in Lincolnshire on Friday, Jan. 9, 2026. (Talia Sprague / News-Sun)

Warren sophomore guard Ella Volante echoed Pyrek.

“This season, Asia has improved her work ethic and comes in early to shoot around and work on her game,” Volante said. “Being just her second year on the varsity, she shows great leadership by knowing the plays and creating opportunities.”

Short credits her mother, Eurydice Key, for providing the emotional and physical support to help her succeed in basketball and in life.

“My biggest motivation in basketball and what pushes me to give my best and never give up is my mom,” Short said. “She holds me accountable and corrects me when I’m wrong, not to bring me down but to make me better.

“Knowing she believes in me and wants the best for me drives me to work harder, stay disciplined and keep pushing even when things get tough.”

Stevenson’s Leila Markicic, left, and Warren’s Ny’Asia Short dive for a loose ball during a North Suburban Conference game in Lincolnshire on Friday, Jan. 9, 2026. (Talia Sprague / News-Sun)

Short, who attended Carmel for her first two years of high school, said she has accomplished several of her goals but wants to lead the Blue Devils to more wins.

“I knew I had to step up and improve and be a leader,” she said. “I’m motivated to do good and help the team. I know I’ve improved a lot, but I have to do more.”

Bobby Narang is a freelance reporter.

https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/01/14/basketball-warren-nyasia-short/