Athlete of the Week: Max Simmons, The First Academy basketball

The First Academy’s Max Simmons has been a steady hand for a Royals boys basketball team that’s seen a lot of change from last season to this one — with a new coach and a whole lot of roster turnover.

Simmons, a 6-foot sharpshooter, has led the Royals in scoring and rebounding this season, averaging 12.5 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. Beyond his output on the court, the junior guard provides TFA with much-needed leadership and experience, as four of the Royals’ top six statistical contributors are freshmen and sophomores.

As of press time, Feb. 4, The First Academy has a 16-7 record and is competing for a Class 2A, District 4 championship — having played its district semifinal game Feb. 5, at home — thanks in large part to Simmons’ play.

The Basics

Age: 17

Sport: Boys basketball

Grade: Junior

School: The First Academy

Q&A

How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?

It’s a blessing to be recognized. However, the only reason I’m receiving this recognition is because of the hard work my teammates put in. We play for the audience of one, and that One is Jesus Christ. I feel individual and team success is happening because we give Him the glory in all that we do.

What do you enjoy the most about basketball?

It’s hard to choose one thing I enjoy the most, but nothing beats the thrill of making a championship play, such as diving on the floor to earn the team an extra possession.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from basketball?

Always listen to your coaches and mentors, because they only want the best for you.

What is your favorite basketball memory?

My favorite basketball memory has been being able to train with my guys: Coach Nick, G, Ro, DJ and Aubrey, since I was 5 years old. They aren’t just my trainers but some of my best friends.

Who is your favorite athlete?

Michael Jordan because he is the definition of a winner.

Is there someone you try to model your game after?

I don’t really model my game after anyone. I just try to play extremely hard and do whatever the team needs me to do.

What is your go-to pre-game meal?

Chipotle bowl: White rice, double chicken and cheese.

What is your go-to pre-game hype song?

“Headlines” by Drake.

What is your favorite non-sports hobby?

Playing chess.

What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island?

I would take a weapon to defend myself, a basketball for sure and lemon pepper chicken wings from Flyers — best wings in Orlando.

What is your favorite movie?

My favorite movie is “Coach Carter,” because I love basketball movies, and that’s the best one.

If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?

My grandpa because he was my biggest fan, and I would love to have one more dinner with him.

If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go?

I would go back to when my grandpa, who founded the Orlando Magic, was going through the whole process of creating the Magic. I would have loved to see everything that went down in the process of bringing NBA basketball to Orlando.

Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?

Comparison is the thief of joy.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

I would have teleportation, so I would never have to worry about being late to anything.

If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be and why?

I would be a cat, so I could jump off anything and still land on my feet; I think that would be pretty cool.

What is your most controversial food take?

Outside of breakfast, Chick-fil-A is extremely overrated.

Does pineapple belong on pizza?

No, it just doesn’t work.