Jaeton Hackley has a different role this season for the Douglas County boys basketball team. Hackley played a little as a freshman last season, but this year the 5-foot-11 sophomore guard has been …
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Jaeton Hackley has a different role this season for the Douglas County boys basketball team.
Hackley played a little as a freshman last season, but this year the 5-foot-11 sophomore guard has been selected by the team as a captain and he's also the Huskies' scoring leader.
“Last year motivated me because we had nine seniors, so being one of the three other people on varsity I knew I was going to have to step up and play on a higher level,” said Hackley. “I got in the gym over the summer, got some shots up and started lifting a lot more so I was just getting myself ready.
“This year for sure has definitely been different. I feel like I have stepped up as a leader, as a person and as a basketball player too. It was a challenge because you see somebody as a sophomore as a captain and they don't want to listen. I feel the guys really respect me because of how hard I work and what I've done for this team.”
Key stats
After 20 games, Hackley was averaging 14.1 points, 3.7 assists, 3.1 rebounds and 2.2 steals a game
COACH'S TAKE:
`Jaeton is extremely mature for his age and plays with a high basketball IQ. He's a very tough player on both ends of the floor. He's got a long way to go but he's a heck of a leader for us.'
Clay Comstock,
Douglas County boys basketball coach
Q&A with Hackley
What or who motivates you most to excel in sports?
My brother Jacob who passed away two years ago. I write his name on my shoes. I think about him every day. Life is short, so take advantage of what you have you have in front in you. I don't know what it was called. He was born late so he came out late and didn't make it.
What would be a perfect performance in your sport?
I usually defend the best player so if I keep their best player from scoring, our whole team can score.
What is your favorite class in school and why?
Math. I'm not really good at math but it is a challenge for me and that's why I like it.
What do you like to do away from basketball and school?
My fun is basketball and I don't do much of anything else. I guess I really just spend time with my family.
What are your pre-game habits?
I usually kind of pray before a game, especially for my brother, and pray that the game goes well and nobody gets injured.
What is the key to being a good defensive player?
Most people say it is how quick you are and all this, but defense is all heart. You have to want to play defense.
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