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Omaha Westside girls basketball players play for Olivia McGinnis-Taylor

Posted at 4:08 PM, Dec 17, 2018
and last updated 2018-12-17 17:08:47-05

OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — Olivia McGinnis-Taylor had three major interests.

She loved animals, softball and most of all, basketball. This would have been Olivia’s senior year on Omaha Westside’s basketball team. But five years ago on July 4th, 2013, a brain aneurysm took her life. She was 12 years old.

In her honor, Jasmine and Olivia’s best friend Liz have dedicated their playing days in memory of Olivia.

Jasmine has a tattoo with her sister’s name. Liz wears a necklace that has Olivia’s ashes in it.

Westside also keeps a picture of Olivia in the locker room that the players see right before they take the floor at a home game.

Olivia's family has started the Love Olivia Foundation in her name. The goal is to spread the love that she had for everyone by providing athletic shoes for those in need. Through the foundation, events are planned to help raise dollars.

Olivia might not be here anymore, but they say she is here in spirit. She’ll always be with them, as they always play for her.