WATCH: Shooting survivor Aaliyah Gayles shares inspiring tips on overcoming hurdles as she prepares for a comeback with USC

USC Trojans point guard Aaliyah Gayles was honored with the 2024 CWSA Honda Inspiration Award on Monday in New York. Gayles, who attended the award ceremony with her parents, received the recognition for her inspiring return to the court after being shot multiple times when in high school.

Gayles was asked what advice she would give to others facing challenges similar to what she experienced.

"Well, first thing first, I just want to say stay positive. So that's gonna work throughout your whole journey," Aaliyah Gayles said. "Stay strong minded. You know, no one could break that barrier of yourself and just be yourself and be who you are and you know that's going to push you through the way you want to go."

Gayles' fellow USC teammate JuJu Watkins expressed admiration for the Spring Valley High School standout's strength by sharing a post about her in an Instagram story.

JuJu Watkins shares Aaliyah Gayles' speech on her Instagram story (Credits: JuJu Watkins/Instagram)

Doctors said they counted 18 gunshot wounds on Gayles' body following the incident, which happened at a house party in Las Vegas on April 16, 2022. Eighteen months later, she returned to the court and played seven matches throughout the 2023-24 season.

Aaliyah Gayles shares her appreciation after winning the Inspiration Award

Aaliyah Gayles, a 5-foot-9 guard, won the CWSA Honda Inspiration Award over two finalists. The Las Vegas, Nevada native had to undergo multiple surgeries to make her return to the court a possibility.

"I'm very grateful and honored to win this award. It's a big moment for me to have come this far and to be recognized for my hard work and dedication," Gayles said.

"I'm also very happy to be among these other two finalists who have also overcome so much. I want to say thank you to everyone for believing in me and my story, and for all the support and love I have received. Fight on!"

The Honda Inspiration Award is presented to a female student-athlete who has faced remarkable physical or emotional challenges, injuries, illnesses or made significant personal sacrifices while enrolled in college as an athlete, yet manages to achieve athletic success despite these hurdles.

USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb also congratulated Gayles on her prestigious award. She praised her for being strong, loyal and never giving up, especially during tough times. Gottlieb also emphasized Gayles' significant role on the team and how she continues to inspire the staff, players and everyone fortunate enough to know her.