Kameron Gibson - work hard on and off the court

SENIOR Kameron Gibson handles the ball in a home game against Milford on Feb. 9. WHHS won 51-37. Gibson scored 29 of the 51 points, resulting in one of his highest scoring games. He also had six rebounds and three assists.

Playing a high school sport can have many benefits, such as improved academics, better time management and developing social relationships. High school can also be a time when playing a sport could be more difficult than others may see. SENIOR Kameron Gibson has gone through this experience for many years.

Gibson started playing basketball in the first grade, and has now played basketball for twelve years. He is currently in his fourth year playing for varsity at WHHS.

Growing up, Gibson was encouraged to play basketball by his father, brother and uncle.

“What encouraged me to play was my dad, uncle and brother who taught me the game and helped me become the player I am today,” Gibson said. Gibson also considers players in the National Basketball Association such as Allen Iverson and Carmelo Anthony as inspiration to play basketball.

Being a SENIOR at WHHS, it can be challenging to balance school, work and home. “It was difficult at first, because I wasn’t used to Walnut’s standards,” Gibson said. But over time he learned to adjust, and to further balance what he refers to as “ball and books.”

While feeling the pressure from parents and coaches, Gibson puts in a lot of time and training on and off the court. “Time spent training and practicing would be countless hours in the gym, before and after school and at night,” Gibson said.

Feeling the pressure can be overwhelming for many. Having support from the administration can be a way to cope with the pressure of playing a high school sport.

“WHHS administration supports me every time they see me,” Gibson said. WHHS administration always has Gibson’s back, whether it be on social media, in life, getting recognition or getting tips on the basketball court and in the classroom.

Gibson is noticed as a top recruit in Ohio and recognized for many achievements. “A lot of pressure is caught on my shoulders and I’m expected to do everything the right way,” Gibson said. Gibson has many offers from both Division one and two colleges, but is undecided as to where he would like to commit.

In high school, many athletes like to set personal limits for themselves. “My personal limits are to be the greatest version of me I can be … basically fulfilling the potential that’s set out for me,” Gibson said. “I don’t care of what people think of me...I want to spread good vibes [and] positivity.”