DEEP RUN — JaQuan Wooten made a statement in South Lenoir’s first basketball game of the season.
As the Blue Devils defeated Swansboro, 63-35, last week, the junior forward scored 21 points, grabbed 17 rebounds and had 10 blocks.
“We were shocked,” he said of the team’s reaction to the triple-double. “It didn’t feel like I had a bunch of points. It felt like it was just six or seven.”
The Devils have since gone undefeated in their first week of the 2013-14 basketball season. They entered Tuesday’s home opener against Richlands with a 3-0 record.
Wooten said the defense is primarily responsible for the team’s success so far.
“We’re faster, and I think we’re a little more dedicated,” said Wooten, whose goal this year is to sustain a lengthy playoff run.
The 6-foot-7 junior has played basketball since he was 5, after watching his dad and brother play the sport. He also looked up to professional players.
He’s originally from Goldsboro, and has played SL basketball three years.
“You have to want it,” he said of the school’s program. “It’s free-willing, and you have to give it all you’ve got every day.”
Wooten noticed his role on the team has also evolved throughout the years, noting his leadership was limited last season.
“I didn’t really have to do anything,” he said. “I was just one of the guys who sat back and listened to our seniors. But this year, people are listening to me.”
It’s a change he’s accepted and is ready to face, especially in having a big opening game. Basketball itself is a challenge, he said.
“It’s gets tougher every year,” said Wooten, which is why his dedication for the game has continued to grow.
Jessika Morgan can be reached at 252-559-1078 and Jessika.Morgan@Kinston.com. Follow her on Twitter @JessikaMorgan.