Ayoka Lee Announces Engagement Following Cheryl Miller Award Win
Kansas State Wildcats women’s basketball star Ayoka Lee had an unforgettable night on Thursday. Overcome with emotion, she broke down in tears after being honored with the prestigious Cheryl Miller Award for excellence in women’s college basketball. But what seemed to be the pinnacle of her evening took an even more heartwarming turn when she made a life-changing announcement—her engagement.
In a moment that captured the hearts of fans and the basketball community alike, Lee revealed that she had said “yes” to the love of her life on Valentine’s Day. The announcement came just minutes after she accepted the award, as she shared her joy with the audience and media in attendance.
“This has been an incredible journey,” Lee said, her voice trembling with emotion. “Winning the Cheryl Miller Award is an honor I never imagined, and to top it all off, I get to share the most exciting news of my life—I said yes to forever with the man I love. Valentine’s Day was extra special this year, and I couldn’t be happier.”
The 6-foot-6 senior center, known for her dominant performances on the court, had already made headlines with her record-breaking achievements. But on this night, it wasn’t just her basketball career that took center stage—it was a deeply personal and joyous moment she was eager to share with the world.
Lee’s fiancé, whose identity she chose to keep private for now, was present in the audience, beaming with pride as she made the announcement. According to sources close to the couple, the proposal was a beautifully planned surprise, taking place on February 14 in an intimate setting surrounded by close family and friends.
“This is the happiest I’ve ever seen Ayoka,” said a teammate. “She has always been a leader, a fighter, and someone who gives her all on and off the court. To see her so in love and excited for the future is truly special.”
As the crowd erupted in applause, Lee couldn’t contain her emotions. With tears of joy streaming down her face, she held up her award in one hand and flashed a sparkling engagement ring on the other. The combination of athletic triumph and personal happiness made for a momentous occasion—one that fans and loved ones will cherish for years to come.
While her basketball future remains bright—with professional aspirations potentially on the horizon—Lee made it clear that she is equally excited about her new chapter in life. “Basketball has been my world for so long, but love is what truly makes life meaningful,” she said. “I’m so grateful to have someone by my side who supports me through it all.”
Social media quickly lit up with congratulatory messages from fans, fellow athletes, and basketball legends alike. Cheryl Miller herself, for whom the award is named, took to social media to celebrate Lee’s incredible night. “Ayoka, you are a force to be reckoned with. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor and even bigger congratulations on your engagement! Wishing you all the happiness in the world.”
Kansas State head coach Jeff Mittie also expressed his joy for Lee, praising her both as an athlete and as a person. “Ayoka is a once-in-a-generation player, but more importantly, she’s an incredible human being. She deserves all the happiness in the world, and we couldn’t be more thrilled for her.”
As she looks ahead to finishing her collegiate career, Lee is embracing both the excitement of her engagement and the challenges that come with being a top-tier athlete. With the Wildcats eyeing a deep postseason run, she remains focused on her team’s success while also preparing for her next big life event—marriage.
With her engagement announcement, Ayoka Lee has once again proven that she is more than just an outstanding athlete. She is a woman of passion, dedication, and love—on the court and in life. As fans celebrate her achievements, they now have another reason to cheer: a fairytale love story unfolding alongside a legen
dary basketball career.