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Mariam Malik

HANDS ON THE BALL. Hayes wards off two players as he keeps his eyes set on the net.

Scoring 1,000 career points in high school is merely a dream for most. However, for senior and Varsity basketball captain Tysen Hayes, that dream became a reality.

On Feb.13, Hayes scored his thousandth point during a game against the Math and Science Academy. Going into the game, Hayes was 8 points away from the milestone. Partway through the first half, Hayes scored his thousandth point with a corner-three shot. “It was a good feeling having my teammates congratulate me,” Hayes said.

Hayes has played basketball for as long as he can remember. Growing up with his dad, a college basketball coach, his love for the game was instantaneous. As with any athlete, Hayes’ relationship with basketball has had its ups and downs. However, that has not stopped him from setting and achieving his goals. “Right now, my relationship with basketball is just about as strong as it gets,” he said.

This is Hayes’ second year as a captain of the boys’ varsity basketball team. He values keeping his team determined, whether that is in practice or during games. However, Hayes also recognizes the downfalls of harsh leaders. “Being a hound about staying focused is not the only job of a captain, and if you do that, the guys will get tired of always being yelled at,” he said.

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Keeping energy and morale high can significantly affect the team’s success. Fostering positive relations between players gives the team an upper hand regarding trust on the court. “I try my best to make sure everyone is having fun and team chemistry is high on and off the court,” Hayes said.

Hayes gets to share the glory of 1,000 career points with his fellow captains, Mikkel Rawdon and Ethan Carter. “Hitting 1000 points is an achievement, not many athletes get to do so it is pretty crazy we had three people hit it this year,” Hayes said.

Hayes embraced the ‘work hard, play hard’ mentality to reach his career milestone. Hayes sought ways to practice basketball and build his technique outside of the school season. He recalls one of the most effective methods he found: “I spent countless hours in the gym with my dad and in the weight room,” he said.

Boys Varsity Basketball will play at Trinity School at River Ridge agaisnt the home team tommorow at 7:00 p.m.