Sawyer Esbenshade, Conestoga Valley High School, senior
How did you first get a basketball in your hand and what has been your journey since then?
Esbenshade: “Probably my dad put a ball in my hands when I was three years old. Starting playing upward.”
How many siblings do you have and how has that impacted you as a player?
Esbenshade: “I have three siblings. I’m the third of four. So two older brothers and one younger. Both my older brothers played basketball. But I don’t feel like I play like my brothers. Both of them were taller and 3-point shooters. I feel I can do a lot more than just shoot 3s.”
Do you play any other sports and how has that translated to the court?
Esbenshade: “I also play football and baseball. The winning culture that we had on the football team has helped, and the intensity of practices I’ve tried to bring over to basketball.”
What are you excited about with this year’s team?
Esbenshade: “We’re going to play fast this year. We’re going to put up a lot of points. I’m excited to play with these guys.”
What have you added to your individual game?
Esbenshade: “My mid-range jump shooting. And you might be seeing a dunk from me for the first time. It’s coming.”
Time for some fun questions. What did you learn in class this week?
Esbenshade: “We’re studying Hamlet in English class.”
Do you have any hobbies outside of sports?
Esbenshade: “I like traveling.”
Now that you’re a senior, what advice would you give to yourself as a freshman?
Esbenshade: “It might be hard sometimes but just keep your head down and keep going. Keep working.”
