Despite being one of the younger players on the varsity boys basketball team, freshman guard DJ Biggins has cemented his status as one of the key players on the team.
Biggins plays on two separate AAU teams. He started playing basketball at six years old, introduced to the sport by his father. Originally a multi-sport athlete, he began to focus on basketball once he began to really get into it. “Being able to play, it means a lot to me,” he said.
Head Coach Brad Seaman recounted when he first recruited DJ. “The second he decided to come to KO, he was here the next day at 7:00 a.m., on a Saturday morning, to get a workout in,” Coach Seaman said, “and that set the tone.” Assistant Coach Ronald Garcia commented on Biggins’ abilities. “He’s a committed athlete, a good teammate, and carries others,” Coach Garcia said. Senior guard Esco Greene is quite impressed and highlighted Biggin’s work ethic as well. “He reminds me a lot of my work ethic and dedication to basketball,” he said.
Both coaches have noted Biggins’ versatility and how he contributes to the team. “He does whatever it takes to help the team, whether it’s scoring or defending,” Coach Seaman said. Coach Garcia added to this. “He’s one of our best finishers and players during transition,” he said. “He’s also a really good rebounder for a point guard.”
Perhaps the highlight of Biggins’ season came during the game with Avon Old Farms, where he scored 21 points and was one of the top scorers of the team, helping the Wyverns take home an 81-66 win back in December. “It was an intense atmosphere, and for a freshman to do that well was exciting,” Coach Garcia said.
Before games, Biggins likes to isolate himself a bit. “Sometimes, I close my eyes and manifest what’s happening on the court,” he said. “I kind of like being alone for a bit, to get in the zone.”
One part of the game that Biggins excels at is being a leader. Coach Seaman notes how he carries himself in games. “He’s going up against 19 year old seniors, and the way he carries himself, it’s very easy to forget he’s only a freshman,” he said.
Following his teamwork skills, Biggins has set a goal of becoming a better leader. “I want to take things from Esco, Gavin, Chase, and apply it to myself and become a better leader,” he said.
When it comes to his future in basketball, Biggins hopes to go and play Division 1 Basketball in college. “He’s on track to become a great high school and college player,” Coach Garcia said.
He has a motto that he hopes to inspire others with. “In order to be great, you have to put yourself in uncomfortable situations to better yourself,” he said. “You can’t let others’ opinions decide your actions and what you do.”
