In the midst of his seventh-grade year, some encouragement and prodding from a family friend compelled Josh Dames to try a new approach to his education. It was a decision for which he is extremely grateful.

Five years after transitioning from being home schooled, the Liberty Christian senior happily reflects on the many memories he has made there.

Dames has risen to prominence as one of the top basketball players in the Metro Athletic Conference, having been a six-year contributor for the Eagles. He began competing on the varsity level as a freshman and has consistently improved, while also being adaptable.

This year Dames has converted from a post presence to playing more of a guard role, while averaging 22 points and 10 rebounds per game. Last season he contributed 21.8 points and 4.2 rebounds, while shooting 77 percent from the field. As a sophomore, he netted 15 points and grabbed 9.3 board per game.

Aside from his success on the hardwood, Dames also plays baseball, having honed his skills as catcher since beginning the game at a young age.

After high school, he is leaving his options open. If an opportunity to play college basketball presents itself, Dames says he may pursue that route. He also has an interest in real estate as a career.

Q: What do you enjoy about basketball?

“I love the fast pace and competitiveness of it. It’s really fun how you always have a job you’re supposed to be doing on the court.”

Q: What’s your favorite basketball memory?

“My favorite is winning my first state championship my sophomore year at Joplin and knowing I contributed to something special.”

Q: What is your biggest basketball achievement?

“Hitting my 1,000-point mark halfway through last year.

Q: What are your expectations for this season?

“Our expectation is to win. This whole year we’ve been working up to go to Joplin and win state again. That’s our expectation.”

Q: What do you like about being catcher?

“The reason I enjoy being catcher is I feel like I have a lot of control in how the game goes. I get to call how the pitches are being thrown. I feel like I could use my strategic plan and control the game more than other positions.”

Q: What do you appreciate about attending LCA?

“My favorite things about LCA are how small it is and how close you get with everybody. You know everyone and can build relationships.”

Q: Who has had the greatest influence on your life?

“My parents. They’ve been my biggest supporters. My siblings have always been there to support me as well.”

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

“My dad, every time before a big game, he would always tell me that if I’m not going out there to win, then there’s no point in going out there. I’ve always kept that in my mind before games. I’m going out there to win — not just to play around.”

Q: If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

“I’ve always wanted to travel to Montana, because I’ve heard it’s really pretty out there. I’ve always liked the mountains.”

Q: What is your favorite Christmas tradition?

“Every year we go to my grandma’s house in Illinois for the day.”

Favorite Holiday Food: “I love the pies.”

Favorite Restaurant: Olive Garden

Favorite TV Show: “Stranger Things”

Favorite Movie: “Braveheart”

Favorite Song: “Deep In” by Lecrae