RJ

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

RJ fell in love with basketball before he understood trophies, rankings or recognition. He simply loved the ball in his hands and the challenge of getting better. Today, that same joy fuels him. He loves competing, creating, learning and testing himself against older players. Basketball is where his personality comes alive—fearless, crafty, competitive and free. To RJ, the court isn’t pressure; it’s his playground.

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

His hero has always been his dad. A former professional basketball player, his father put the first ball in his hands and has taught him the game from the ground up. But the greatest lessons haven’t been moves or jump shots—they’ve been discipline, resilience, humility and believing in the work before anyone sees the results. RJ isn’t trying to become his dad; he’s inspired by him to discover just how far his own journey can go.

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

Our proudest moment isn’t one trophy or highlight—it’s watching RJ repeatedly choose the uncomfortable road. As a 4th grader, he stepped onto courts against 6th and 7th graders, often facing players bigger, stronger and more experienced. Yet he never asked to be protected from the challenge—he embraced it. Watching a young boy learn that courage isn’t being unafraid, but competing anyway, has meant more than any championship.