Well, we fell earlier than any of us expected this season, missing our shot at sectionals by one bucket. I think the whole team went into a state of shock for a little while, because the season ended so abruptly in a way that none of us saw coming. It was tough…heartbreaking.
Probably one of the hardest things athletes face is to look around the locker room and see your teammates with tears in their eyes, knowing it could have – should have – been different, and facing the reality that it’s the last time you’ll ever be on the court with your seniors and the last time you’ll ever be with that same group of guys.
By the time we had a few days to recover from life doing what life does sometimes, soccer season had already started. After lots of thought and prayer, and with the knowledge that I’d be changing the dynamic I’ve had my whole life, I decided to dedicate my entire athletic effort to basketball. It’s my brother’s senior year and
not playing soccer with him for his last year was not an easy choice to make. But after conversations with a few coaches, and committing to an INTENSE travel ball schedule, I knew going to basketball full time was the right choice. My primary goal is to play at the next level; it’s all I’ve ever wanted to do. Seeing how fast Noah’s senior year has come and gone has made me realize that if I want to live my dream, I need to make it my job. I know sacrifice is part of the journey, and I don’t regret my choice at all, but I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t a hard one to make. But, I have to admit, making it has already opened some doors I didn’t expect. I played in a weekend tournament at ETSU and had a great experience. I have been to the gym every day. I’ve been getting hours of extra court time in. I’m even going to be starting some jump training soon, and I won’t miss a single tournament, camp or AAU practice this year for the first time. I will miss being on the field with my brother, but he knows basketball is my dream and I know he wants me to succeed.
