In a heartwarming twist that could make even the toughest sports fans melt, Minnesota Lynx forward Alissa Pili took to social media to gush over her younger brother Cayden Pili’s latest achievement. If sibling pride were a sport, Alissa would undoubtedly be MVP.
Cayden, a star quarterback for Dimond High School, was named the Alaska Football Gatorade Player of the Year, a feat not accomplished by anyone from Dimond since 1987. That’s right, not since big hair and cassette tapes ruled the world has Dimond High snagged this accolade. Cayden didn’t just rewrite the record books; he rewrote Dimond High’s entire sports legacy.
Alissa shared the news on Instagram with a heartfelt caption: “My baby brother is a GPOY 🥹❤️,” because apparently, winning state titles runs in the Pili DNA. We’re not crying; you’re crying.
Cayden’s stats this season are so impressive that even fantasy football players might feel a pang of jealousy. Leading his team to an 11-0 record and their first-ever state championship, Cayden has emerged as the ultimate high school football star. Oh, and did we mention he also snagged the MaxPreps Player of the Year award? No big deal.
A Family of Champions (and Overachievers)
If there were a Mount Rushmore of Alaska athletics, the Pili family would likely have its own wing. Alissa herself is practically the queen of the Last Frontier’s sports scene. A three-time Alaska Gatorade Basketball Player of the Year and a two-time MaxPreps National Female Athlete of the Year, she made winning look like a family tradition. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
Alissa’s trophy collection includes 13—yes, 13—state championships across five sports. From dominating the volleyball court to wrestling (yes, wrestling) opponents to the mat, it’s safe to say the Pili household is no stranger to victory celebrations. Their family motto might as well be, “If you’re not first, why bother?”
Her older brother Brandon Pili also keeps the family flex alive, playing for the Seattle Seahawks in the NFL. At this point, their family reunions must look like a Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
Dad’s Philosophy: No Slacking Allowed
What’s the secret to this powerhouse family? Their father’s old-school approach to sports. The Pili patriarch didn’t just encourage his kids to play sports—he practically mandated it. “Pick one sport, but you’re playing all,” was the rule. Talk about maximizing potential.
Alissa explained her dad’s philosophy in a past interview: “If you have a God-given talent, you shouldn’t take it for granted.” Cayden seems to have taken that lesson to heart, proving that the Pili genes are a cheat code for athletic success.
A Star on the Rise
While Alissa transitioned from college stardom at Utah to becoming the No. 8 pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, her rookie year with the Minnesota Lynx has been quieter. Averaging just 6.3 minutes and 2.4 points per game, Alissa’s current role might not set the world on fire, but she’s clearly got plenty of fight left in her. After all, it’s in her DNA.
As for Cayden, the spotlight is now squarely on him. With an undefeated season and a state championship under his belt, the young quarterback is undoubtedly carrying the Pili family torch forward. Alaska better brace itself—this might just be the beginning of another sports dynasty.
So, here’s a tip for all sports fans: if a Pili is on the roster, you might as well start engraving their name on the trophy. Because in this family, winning isn’t just a goal—it’s a lifestyle.
