Addison Odom

Someone asked me today, "Why do you always sit alone at your kids’ basketball games?" My answer is not because I’m unfriendly or antisocial, but because sitting by myself helps me focus & enjoy the game. My solitude isn’t about being alone—it’s about gaining perspective & being there as a support-the way parents should be. In my role as "PGHLisa", I’ve seen how the game can wear people down & how pressure can take the joy out of sports, especially for parents. I understand the strategies, the plays, & the ways players grow, but when I'm watching the game—I just want to be present as a supportive parent. With only about a year & a half left for my daughter to play, I want to appreciate every moment & quietly cheer on her journey. The noise from the sidelines—parents yelling at refs, the scorer's table, the coaches or their own kids—is tough for me to hear. I can’t listen to that kind of negativity. Early on, I decided not to be part of that chaos & regardless of the sport, I sit alone. She notices this, too. She once said, “You’re the best sport parent.” Not because I’m the loudest, but because I know when to clap & when to just watch. My calm is how I show my pride, no matter the outcome. So yes, I sit alone—intentionally-because in those quiet moments, I'm simply present, taking it all in & enjoying the moment for what it is.

2029 Addison Odom of Whitfield scored 17 points today against St Charles West. Very talented kiddo