Junior takes leadership role on basketball court
By Jill Lira
February 19, 2007
The roar of the Bleacher Creatures, the anticipation of the first dribble and the one leap that signifies the start of the varsity game all depend on starting center Marshall Wetta. Wetta, junior, has played on the varsity team since his freshman year, leading the team with his dominating 6'4" stature.
According to Wetta, he has played competitive basketball since seventh grade. He has continued to play for several reasons, one being the fast pace.
"I like the pace of the game and the amount of athleticism it requires. However, I don't like the transition from football to basketball because it's physically exhausting," Wetta explained.
Wetta has competed in football since his freshman year. He was a crucial member of the state-winning Eagle team, helping defeat the Garden Plain Owls for the Class 3A state title in November.
With Timothy Beikman as the new head basketball coach, Wetta feels as though the team has pulled together in a new way.
"I feel the team is doing very well considering we have a new coach. I feel we play with a lot of passion every game. However, we don't use our tools the way they should be used," stated Wetta.
Beikman explained that Wetta brings leadership, energy and enthusiasm to the team.
"Marshall has a work ethic and comes to practice every day with the goal of improving," said Beikman.
As for the rest of the season, Wetta has set high standards for himself and the team.
"I would like to see the team get to the state tournament. I also want to dunk and show off my dunk dance!" said Wetta, "In the future, I wish to average 15 points a game and at least 10 rebounds a game."
Currently, Wetta is averaging 14 points per game. He is unsure if he will continue playing competitive basketball after his high school career ends.
"If I can, I'd like to get a scholarship. It doesn't matter where. Just to play would be an honor," Wetta stated.
According to Beikman, the next level of basketball is a definite possibility.
"If Marshall continues his work ethic and his desire to play, there is a good chance he could continue his career," said Beikman.
Like many players, Wetta has a favorite part of the game, and like many, it is the game itself.
"I get a rush from the atmosphere of the crowd and the feel of scoring in front of everyone," Wetta explained.
There have been two moments that Wetta treasures the most.
"My two proudest moments are when I scored a buzzer-beating shot to win against Rock Creek last year and Jeff West this year," stated Wetta.
Being a team leader, Wetta has offered his advice to younger players on many occasions. This year, he feels as though he must really get the message across.
"Just love the game enough as an eighth-grader and a freshman to drive yourself to want to be better than everyone else. Then, as you get older, you're already better and you just clean glass all night!" explained Wetta.
Junior takes leadership role on basketball court
Post your feedback on this topic here
| Date | Subject | Posted by: |
|---|---|---|
| 02/21/2007 | Hey Marshall, why don't you come play... | Alex Oyler |
| 02/21/2007 | yeah^ and then we can all say "hey! i... | Kerry |
| 02/27/2007 | Nice write up on young man.... | gigget |
