Personal Statement
Since I started playing organized basketball team sports in the 4th grade, I believe one thing has set me apart from the other players - I make everyone on my team better. I'm not totally sure but maybe it's my drive and work ethic combined with the ability to shoot the basketball with high percentage rates, dribble effectively, as well as play defense the correct way. Or maybe it's the way I talk and direct traffic on the court while the play is going on. Or maybe it is the way I get a hand in the passing lane to deflect a pass or make the unselfish pass to the wide open guy even if he is not a scorer on the team. I like to think I'm a 'glue guy', someone who plays for the team not as an individual. I may lead the team in scoring one night, lead in rebounding or steals or assists the next. I'm going to dive for that loose ball with 8 seconds and up by 12 points.
People have compared me to Draymond Green in terms of how I play the game and also how I improve an aspect of my game year over year. Team MVP in 6th, 8th, and 10th grade so far. I was challenged by my JV coach my sophomore year to be the visible leader of the team. At first, I struggled to find my voice and we started 0-3. Then we won 12/13 of our next games and we finished 1st, undefeated in the Catholic League. I learned I could bring the team together focused on winning and playing the right way regardless of the odds. I found I could be an effective leader on the court, of course, but also on the bus ride home after a tough loss. That's who I strive to be.