Joey Pascua '18 Recruiting Profile

I fell in love with the game of basketball at about twelve years old.  As I grew older I came to find out that if you want to be really good at something you must work for it. I then began putting a lot of time and energy into getting better at basketball. I was looking to perfect my shot along with becoming an all-around good player.  After I entered high school my love for the game deepened even more. The result of that was countless hours of time in the gym and working with trainers.  As my junior year approached my excitement grew with the high hopes of a good season as my dreams are to play collegiate ball.

My goal throughout my high school career has been to play collegiate basketball. I have set the pace on the teams I have played with and been known to be a leader on and off the court. I have put hard work in my game in season and out of season, consistently finding ways of getting in the gym to better myself as a player.  I believe that exemplary character is one of the most important behaviors one can have on the court.  Real character shows when things are not going as you would hope.,yet you show grit and genuine encouragement for your team.  Junior year my character was tested,  I learned the true meaning of being a support to your team when unfortunate circumstances prevent you from being a part of what you love.  During soccer season I strained my hamstring, I came back too soon a couple of times causing me to miss 19 games of my  junior basketball season. This was extremely hard for me having to sit out and rest as I watched my team struggle through games where I could have been the difference maker. I tried to keep a positive outlook and continued to support my team with encouragement from the sidelines. I weekly went through rigorous physical therapy to come back as soon as I was cleared.  My patience was greatly tested through this trail. I wanted to comeback early but my parents stressed that I need to come back when fully healed.  

I am now fully recovered stronger than before, working all summer with a trainer to gain strength and agility in my game.  Nothing is more motivating for me than to play collegiate ball and complete my degree.  Getting a solid education is important to me, I have done well in school maintaining a 3.5 GPA along with taking AP and Honor classes. Having good grades is important and there must be a balance because you are student as well as an athlete.  Completing a degree in business with a concentration in management and finance is where I plan to focus my studies. My aunt has an international jewelry business of which I have the opportunity to join and want to bring to the company valuable insights and innovation.