Simone Biles named Athlete of the Year in Houston Sports Awards

HOUSTON (KIAH) — Gymnast Simone Biles, coming off another successful Olympic showing in 2024, wins two awards in the 2025 Houston Sports Awards.

Biles, who is from Spring, was named the Athlete of the Year and won the Moment of the Year when she won the women’s all-around gold medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.

The Houston Sports Awards is annually put on by the Harris County – Houston Sports Authority, as it celebrates the most outstanding athletes, coaches and contributors in the Houston area.

Here’s the 2025 Houston Sports Awards winners:

Simone Biles was awarded as the Athlete of the Year for the 2025 Houston Sports Awards. (Harris County – Houston Sports Authority)

Simon Biles: Arguably one of the greatest gymnasts of all time, Houston’s own Simone Biles was named the 2025 Athlete of the Year for her incredible success during the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. This marks the second time Biles has earned the Houston Sports Awards Athlete of the Year honor, having previously won in 2019. As the most decorated gymnast in history, with 11 Olympic medals and 30 World Championship medals, Biles continues to showcase her unparalleled talents both on and off the mat.

Moment of the Year

Simone Biles wins Olympic All-Around Gold: For the second time in her illustrious career, Simone Biles captured the Olympic All-Around Gold Medal at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, further cementing her legacy as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time. With unwavering dedication and passion for the sport, Biles continues to showcase her talents on a global stage and capped an incredible comeback that captivated the nation.

Inspiration Award

Greg Jones, George Ranch High School football and disabilities track coach: A longtime football coach, Greg Jones has now devoted more of his time to coach athletes with disabilities at George Ranch High School. His connection with a former student has led to years of inspirational work with those looking for a chance to succeed on the field.

Community Impact Award

The Knockout Factory: Located on the city’s East End, this boxing gym and after school program for young men and women ensures its participants not only stay fit but have a purpose beyond the everyday struggles they may face outside the ring.

Frank Ross: The Houston Texans special teams coach has a passion for helping those that are less fortunate. This year, he hosted “Coaches Cut” an event designed to help the homeless with a day dedicated to their well-being, including haircuts, meals, dental work and showers.

Houston Texans special teams coach Frank Ross was awarded the Community Impact Award. (Harris County – Houston Sports Authority)

High School Coach of the Year

Willie Gaston, North Shore High School head football coach: Coaching at the school that he played at, Gaston is continuing the winning tradition at North Shore football as the Mustangs climbed into the nation’s Top 10 rankings a year after playing in yet another state championship game.

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Female High School Athlete of the Year

Kassie O’Brien, Cinco Ranch High School volleyball: The Cinco Ranch High School senior led the Cougars to the state championship match in 2023. Ranked as one of the top players in the country, Kassie was named Setter of the Year by the GHVCA for the Houston area. She committed to play at the University of Kentucky where she is currently enrolled after graduating high school early.

Male High School Athletes of the Year

Jelani Watkins, Atascocita High School (Track & Field/Football): The Atascocita High School graduate helped the Eagles track and field team win a state title in 2024. He won gold in the 100 meters, 200 meters and served as the anchor for the 4×100 team that recorded the fastest time ever posted of any U.S. high school. Jelani is currently enrolled at LSU and competes for both the Tigers football team and track & field team.

Jonah Williams, Galveston Ball High School (Football/Baseball): The Galveston Ball High School senior was the #1 ranked linebacker in the country and #3 overall prospect. During his junior year, WIlliams collected 117 tackles and 5 interceptions. He also excels in baseball, basketball and track & field and has committed to play multiple sports at the University of Texas. He is currently enrolled at UT and is playing with the Longhorns baseball team after graduating early.