Salem Drennen

Grade/Class – 8th 2030

School – Maurice Bowling Middle School

Position(s) – Point guard

Jersey Number – 20

How long have you been playing basketball? – Seems like my whole life.

What made you start playing? – My mom played.

What do you love most about basketball? – The competition and improving

What position do you feel most comfortable playing? – Point guard

What is your strongest basketball skill? – Attacking the rim and ball handling.

What skill are you working hardest to improve right now? – Improving my non-dominant hand.

How would Coach Malik describe your game? – Competitive and determined.

What do you focus on before tip-off? – How to win.

 How do you stay confident during a tough game?  Don’t focus on mistakes, focus on improving them.

What does playing hard mean to you? – Giving your all.

What makes a great teammate?  – Always being encouraging, no matter the circumstances.

How do you contribute to your team even when you’re not scoring? – Be a leader and set your teammates up for success.

Do you see yourself as a leader? Why or why not? – Yes because I’m willing to help my teammates be the best the can be and I have grit for my team.

One goal you have for this season – To improve my game and win tournaments.

One long-term basketball goal – To inspire others.

What level do you hope to play at in the future? – College

Favorite pre-game song or artist – “Let It All Work Out” – Lil Wayne

Favorite basketball player (current or all-time) – My mom (Katie Smith) and Zoey Webster and Paige Bueckers

Why do you look up to that player? – My mom and Zoey because of their point guard abilities. Paige for how far she has come.

Favorite food after a game – Chick-fil-a

Favorite subject in school – ELA

One word that describes your game – I’ve got two, passionate and hungry.

One message you want people to know about you as a player – I work my hardest.

What would you tell someone who wanted to join Cyclones Academy? – You have to be willing to work! It was my best decision.