Basketball has always been a family affair for the Deilys from shooting hoops in the driveway to CYO games, and now at Acalanes High. For them, the game is more than points and plays, it the love of the game in this house. This season, that family bond shines in a special way: senior Landon on the boys varsity team, playing his last year as a Don, and freshman Avery on the girls varsity team, bringing her ‘A’ game. On the court, they play their hearts out, but off the court, they’re siblings, cheering each other on, celebrating every basket, and carrying the kind of quiet support that only family can give.
For Landon, having Avery on campus is a constant reminder of what really matters. Between classes and practices, their time together is brief, but meaningful. “It’s hard to talk long on campus,” Landon said, “but whenever we see each other, we always make an effort to say hello and connect each day.” Those small moments—passing in the hallway, a quick wave or smile—mean a lot, especially knowing this is his final year as a Don.
Being a senior also shapes how Landon approaches the game. Having his little sister wearing the same colors gives him extra motivation every time he steps on the court. “It motivates me to play hard knowing I’m not only playing for myself,” he shared. “I’m playing for our name—and she’s got so many more years.” For Landon, it’s about setting an example and leaving something behind for Avery to build on.
Avery feels that impact every day. As a freshman, adjusting to high school can be overwhelming, but seeing her brother in the hallways makes Acalanes feel like home. “It’s been a long time since we’ve been on campus together,” she said. “It’s a super familiar face, and it’s cool to finally be a Don.” She’s grateful for the supportive environment at Acalanes, where teachers, coaches, and teammates push each other to grow—and where she gets to watch firsthand what dedication looks like through Landon.
When the roles reverse and one becomes a fan in the stands, the support never fades. The siblings do their best to attend each other’s games, even though schedules don’t always line up. Landon loves cheering for Avery, even if it’s hard not being able to talk to her during the game. Advice, of course, comes afterward. Avery appreciates every moment of that support, especially when Landon shows up for her games and talks things through afterward. Those postgame conversations are just as important as the games themselves.
Growing up, basketball was always part of their bond. One-on-one games at home usually went Landon’s way—something both siblings admit with a laugh. These days, though, competition has softened into mutual respect. “We’re not that competitive at home anymore,” Landon said. “We usually work off each other.” Avery agrees, adding that they understand each other’s differences and support one another in their own lanes.
On the court, their styles reflect who they are. Landon describes Avery as completely locked in the moment she checks into a game. Her focus is impossible to miss, radiating confidence and determination. Avery, meanwhile, sees her brother as a player full of heart. “He really cares,” she said. “He knows his role, he’s strong, and he plays his game. He plays like Landon.”
At the end of the day, it’s the little things that say the most—like Landon giving Avery a ride home after practice, or the pride they feel watching each other succeed. Having both Deily siblings on Acalanes varsity basketball isn’t just special for them—it’s a reminder of what high school sports are all about: family, growth, and cheering the loudest for the people who matter most.