- December 15, 2024
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After establishing himself as a vital part of the Windermere Prep boys basketball team, which reached the state championship game and finished with a 24-8 record last season, senior Sam Shoptaw is ready to take a leap and help the Lakers not only reach states but also help get them over the hump and bring home the hardware.
The South Alabama basketball signee returns to WPS as its top playmaker, having averaged six assists per game during his first season as a Laker.
So far in the 2024-25 season, the 6-foot-2 point guard has added to his workload as the team’s primary play-maker by increasing his production as a scorer. Through four games, Shoptaw has upped his points per game average from last season by more than 50% — going from 9.7 ppg in 2023-24 to 15.3 ppg.
Expect Shoptaw, his partner-in-crime, junior Brandon Bass Jr., and the entire Lakers boys basketball team to once again make some serious noise this season on the hardwood.
Age: 18
Sport: Boys Basketball
Grade: Senior
School: Windermere Prep
How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?
It feels amazing to know that the hard work that I’m putting in is being noticed.
What do you like the most about basketball?
It teaches so many life lessons. I’ve played basketball my whole life, at least since I can remember, and I’ve learned so much about life from this game.
How does it feel to be committed to play in college?
It’s amazing, because I’ve always dreamed of playing at the next level, and I’m just thankful to the University of South Alabama for giving me the opportunity to do so.
What is your goal for this season, for yourself and the team?
To win a state championship.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from basketball?
Communication is key in life.
What is your favorite basketball memory?
I’m living my favorite basketball memory each and every day when I’m able to wake up and continue to chase my dream.
Who is your favorite athlete?
LeBron James because of the person he is off the court and all he does for his community and others.
Is there someone you try to model your game after?
I try to play like a smaller version of Luka Doncic.
What is your go-to pre-game meal?
A grilled chicken sandwich with everything on it and a cup of fruit.
What is your go-to pre-game hype song?
“Pass The Water” by Lil Durk.
What is your favorite non-sports hobby?
Playing video games with my friends.
What is your favorite subject in school?
English because my friends are in that class, and I like my teacher.
What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island?
A basketball, Bible and a fishing pole.
If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?
Kobe Bryant, so I can learn from him and understand what it takes to get to the position he was in. Also, I would talk to him about the knowledge he has outside of basketball. I would just try to pick his brain.
If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go?
I would like to go back to the 1980s and ’90s to see how my parents lived and what it took for them to be successful in different ways than we have to today.
Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?
Don’t listen to what others have to say and understand that God has a plan for you, even if you don’t know where He will take you!
If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be and why?
A wolf, to learn about the mentality they have.
What is your most controversial food take?
Cereal should be eaten in a cup.
Does pineapple belong on pizza?
No, pineapple does not belong on pizza.
