Derby basketball player Jaden Wilson recently gave an interview with VYPE.
VYPE: What are your personal goals for the year?
My personal goals for this year are to be a leader and really help my team succeed every day, whether that be in practice or a game! I am hoping that I leave an impact on the underclassmen, like my seniors and juniors had on me. That’s what makes all the hard work pay off, knowing you have that relationship with your team.
VYPE: What is your favorite athletic memory?
My favorite athletic memory is when we won 3rd place last year. It was definitely hard to lose the game before and realize that we weren’t going to the championship game this year, but we had one last game together and we were so grateful for it. We played our hearts out and all had such a fun time. It was so rewarding to have one last team win together.
VYPE: What teammate has left the biggest impression on you and why?
The teammate that has left the biggest impression on me is definitely Addy Brown. She is the hardest worker I know and really made sure to push everyone to their best. There were days where I didn’t feel like spending an extra 30 minutes to an hour after practice shooting, but Addy would always make sure we did, because she knew that was best for our team. It payed off for sure! I had a great 3 point percentage and our connection with each other on the court was unmatched. I sure do miss her. She is a great leader, teammate, and friend. There isn’t anyone like her!
VYPE: What is your favorite part of being on this team?
My favorite part of being on this team is the friendships that come out of it. It definitely makes a difference on the court because our chemistry is unlike any other teams. It’s such a good feeling to be able to just hangout with your teammates all of the time! Our bond makes us better! These girls have been my closest friends over the years and I’m so thankful to have them in my life.
VYPE: Do you participate in any community service projects?
I haven’t participated in any community service projects yet, but I hope to soon! I am currently working for Americorp, which is a company that allows high school students to help/tutor elementary school students! It is great and I love seeing the kids everyday!!!
VYPE: What Clubs or Campus groups are you involved with and why?
I am not apart of any clubs or campus groups currently!
VYPE: What has your sport taught you that you use in your daily life?
I would say that basketball has taught me how to be a good friend to others, but especially to be grateful for everyday that I am able to have these opportunities! You never know what day could be your last, so make the best of it!
VYPE: What is the best advice that anyone has given you?
I think the best advice that has been given to me is to do hard things not for yourself, but do it for the person next to you, your teammate, or others. It just makes you think about more than yourself and that you aren’t alone, you’re doing this together, so hold yourself accountable!
VYPE: Who inspires you and why?
I would say my mom inspires me for sure! She is a nurse and works 3 jobs just so that she can give her kids a life with no worry! She pushes me to be the best I can be everyday, and she is truly my best friend. She is the most hardworking person I know and I hope I grow up to be just like her.
VYPE: Here is your chance to give a shoutout or say thank you to anyone you wish.
I’d like to thank my mom, my dad, my coach, Joel, all of my teammates, and friends for always supporting me and helping me strive to be not only a better athlete, but a better person! I am forever grateful for you all.
