Benjamin

What do they love most about playing their sport(s)?

He loves basketball because it’s where he feels most alive. I see how it brings out his passion, his drive, and that fire in him to keep getting better. He loves the challenge—the way he pushes himself every single day to be sharper, quicker, stronger. But more than that, he loves the freedom of it. When he’s on the court, it’s just him, the ball, and the game. He gets to express himself, create, and show who he is without saying a word. I think he loves how basketball gives him a place to dream

Who inspires them—on or off the field—and why?

He’s inspired by players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander because of his work ethic, his smooth game, and how he always stays calm under pressure. But honestly, I think what inspires him most is himself. He’s always trying to outdo the person he was yesterday. He watches the greats, but his real motivation comes from wanting to prove to himself—and everyone else—that he can be one of them someday.

What’s one moment in their athletic journey that makes you proudest?

One moment we’re proudest of is when he kept training and pushing himself even after his wrist surgery. A lot of kids would’ve used that as an excuse to slow down, but not him. He stayed locked in—working on his shot, his footwork, his conditioning—anything he could do. It showed us how much heart he has and how serious he is about his dreams. That kind of dedication at his age is rare, and it makes us so proud.