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Houston Christian's Montana Wheeler
TURNING HEADS: Houston Christian’s Wheeler stacking up offers
Given the tenacity Wheeler has displayed on the court in just two years of high school, the soon-to-be junior has already begun to bring in offers to play college ball -- most recently from Washington and Oral Roberts.
The path he is on isn’t too different from the one his older brother, Sahvir, walked not long ago.
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
“It’s really awesome to say the least,” said Wheeler. “I watched my brother go through this process and for me to do the same thing is pretty cool.”
“Getting opportunities to play at the next level is always a blessing," he said. "I knew it was just a matter of time because of the work I put in every day towards my game. I am extremely grateful that those coaches believe in my talent. It’s truly amazing.”
Some athletes might get complacent once they get offers. But, don’t expect that to be the case for Wheeler.
“It honestly does change my mindset,” he said. “Now that these offers are starting to roll in, I am going to work harder than ever because I know I’ll have a target on my back.”
That will certainly be the case, especially since he’s a major player on the reigning SPC champs.
2022-23 Houston Christian BasketballBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
However, there is still more to be proven according to Houston Christian’s point guard.
“There is always room for growth,” Wheeler said. “No one in high school has reached their full ability, so I definitely believe there is more to prove. My first two years of high school have been a great experience and I’ve found myself having a lot of success. So, for my junior year, I’m expecting my teammates and I to have another incredible year… Houston Christian 2023-24 is going to be special.”
It will be interesting to see what else is in store for Wheeler and the rest of coach Ron Crandall’s group in the upcoming season.
Concordia Lutheran's Jace Jeffries
NO DAYS OFF: Jeffries dedicates himself to the Game
The junior looks forward to playing an even bigger role in 2023-24.
“Of course, it’s going to be a big responsibility for me,” said Jeffries. “We had a pretty good season, but we know there’s more work to be done. We have a good group of guys, and I feel like as a senior I need to lead them into a winning position. So, we know our purpose in what we do, and we’ll go hard every day.”
In addition to dishing assists on the court, Jeffries spends his free time assisting the community by helping to train the younger generation of ballplayers at Alodia Basketball Academy.
“I always try to give back to the youth,” he said. “It’s always been a big part of my life, because when I was a kid I looked up to people. They look at a kid who’s teaching them the drills three times a week and I think that makes them appreciate it more. So, now I want these kids who look up to me to succeed.”
Given his palpable dedication to the game, it’s not hard to see why he’s become a standout in Concordia Lutheran hoops.
2022-23 Concordia Lutheran BasketballJustin Hartojo (VYPE)
“I think my hard work and motivation helps to set me apart,” Jeffries said. “Getting up in the morning, not just for basketball – it might be for the classroom or something else. I’m always trying to better myself in my work ethic, without cutting any corners.”
It’s only a matter of time before that translates onto the hardwood in a major way.