School: Liberty Christian Academy

Grade: Senior 

Favorite Professional Athlete: Shaquille O’Neal 

What’s a fun fact about yourself that most people would not know? “I like hunting. The best part is when we go hunting at my brother-in-law's farm and we get a bunch of guys – it’s a fun time.” 

What sports do you play?

“Basketball, soccer, I played baseball when we had a team and I play golf quite a bit in leagues sometimes.” 

What’s your main sport?

“Definitely basketball.”

How old were you when you started playing basketball?

“Probably five or six.”

What are some career highlights?

“I hit my 1,000 career point my junior year, I got to play with three of my cousins and we beat Heritage Classic last year – they were a pretty tough team.”

How did it feel to hit your 1,000 career point?

“It was a really cool thing to happen. All glory to God that I was able to hit that, but to be honest, I didn’t even know I had hit it. I think I was shooting free throws when it happened and I just kept playing. All of the sudden they stood up and started cheering, but it was a special moment with my buddies and taking pictures with family and friends. It was very memorable.”

What are you doing this Summer to prepare for your senior season?

“Church basketball is a big part because some Wednesdays and Thursdays, I go to youth and play basketball and on Sunday nights, I’ll play basketball. I’m also going to go to summer practices just to prepare for the season and keep myself in shape.” 

What goals do you have?

“My coach said I’m on track to break the rebounding record, so I definitely want to break that and for soccer and basketball, I want to get first in conference and state.” 

Is there an athlete that you look up to?

“My cousin Josh. He still whoops me every time we play, but he’s taught me everything.” 

What’s your main motivation that pushes you to get better each day?

“Probably Josh. I think he was one of the best posts to ever play at LCA and I still play with him quite a bit. He’s really good and he’s taught me everything I know. I wouldn’t be where I’m at without him, so really it’s all thanks to him.” 

Tell me more about Josh’s role in your career?

“I was never really that good at basketball until he started working with me. He would either come to practices or come to church ball. He would work with me and make me a better player.” 

Are there any other mentors that have had a big influence?

“Definitely my coach Butch (Clark) and my other cousin Zach, I played with him and he’s a big mentor. Larky too, those are all really great people I look up to and respect – they’ve taught me a lot.” 

What’s the biggest obstacle you’ve had to overcome?

“Just trying to keep my composure in games and making sure I’m not freaking out, or making sure I keep myself in check, not just for me, but for my teammates.”

What lessons have you learned through sports?

“Just to glorify God while playing sports. I try to glorify Him and everything I do on and off the court.” 

Does playing soccer help with any areas in basketball or vice versa?

“Definitely with my cardio. Going from soccer straight into basketball is a big thing for me, but it helps keep me in shape for both of them.”