BASKETBALL: Lamont Butler is a force to be reckoned with on and off the Poly basketball court.
By Peyton Varner, Staff Writer
The Poly boys basketball team has achieved success so far in their 2017-2018 season with the help of their young point guard, Lamont Butler (10). Butler has progressed as one of the key assets to the Poly team, making clutch plays when the team critically needs him. Even more impressively, the talented sophomore balances his dedication to basketball with his achievement in school, remaining at the top of his class. Butler’s success in high school has already earned him offers from several colleges to play at the next level. He hopes to continue at the professional level, and at this rate he will certainly reach that goal.
Butler developed a passion for a basketball career by watching his older sisters. “All three of my sisters played basketball, so I grew up always being around basketball. They would teach me things while we played outside when I was little. My sisters definitely inspired me to play,” he said. Butler credits his entire family for playing a huge role in his successful journey, encouraging him to rise to the top in all that he does and motivating him everyday. “My parents have influenced me the most in my life. Through all their tough times and struggles, they still retain the power to make me happy.”
When basketball fans attend games and come to support the team, they have the opportunity to witness Butler, a hard-working player. Little do the fans know, he is not only a top level athlete, but manages a difficult school schedule, taking honors and advanced courses. “It is hard to balance school and basketball, with practice, games and extra workouts, so our time is pretty limited to do homework or study. But to play basketball, you need good grades so we have to deal with it.” Butler’s work ethic and mindset help him deal with the rigors of sport and school, enabling him to successfully catch the attention of elite colleges.
When asked about his successes, Butler’s humility radiates as he highlights the achievements of his teammates rather than his own. “One of the most memorable moments was when Tobin [Kund (12)] set a school record of hitting 11 threes in a game. Just the enjoyment that the team had and that we were all rooting for Tobin makes it a special moment,” he said. Incredibly, Butler considers this feat as a moment that brought him the most joy on the court. His presence on the court and his interaction with teammates not only shows the heart he has for the sport, but exemplifies the traits of a special athlete.
Butler continues through the Bears’ season, not only as a talented athlete and scholar, but an inspiration to many. When he walks on the court, Butler is a force to be reckoned and opposing coaches know they must key in on him. In the classroom, he motivates his peers through his high academic standards. His dedication to his family, teammates, and his classmates shows the type of person he is. Although he has the work ethic, dedication, and passion to succeed, it is his humility that will take him places.