ELI CLINTON-HIS TIME TO SHINE
By Michael Bray
Eli Clinton has always loved basketball more than any other sport.
As a six-foot-four freshman he will get to showcase that love immediately for the Westville Yellowjackets.
“He is going to play a huge role for us this season,” said head coach Tyler Tripplett. “He has a great touch around the rim and can also stretch the floor with his ability to shoot the basketball. He’s been working everyday to sharpen up his skills leading into his freshman season. Eli is a huge asset to our team with his size, athleticism, and toughness. He brings great post foot work, rebounding and rim protection to the table.”
Clinton, whose height is a definite advantage, is ready to take on the task at hand with a senior heavy team.
“I’ve always been the youngest in my group growing up but also one of the tallest,” he said. “It seems there is more expectation when you’re the tallest, which is okay. It’s pushed me out of my comfort zone to be better.”
Clinton called winning his first game a cool experience and while concentrating on basketball this year, plans to add football and baseball to his resume next year.
Triplett said that Eli has been like a sponge for the Yellowjackets as he has been learning as much as he can from the seniors while adding his own personality to the team..
“Eli is a great person. His nickname on the team is ‘Smiley’ because he is always smiling,” the coach added. “He has a great personality.”
In his spare time when he’s not watching basketball or working out, you can find Clinton tuning into some of his favorite comedies or eating his favorite food.
“My favorite is sushi. I can eat that anytime of the day, and as for movies, anything with Adam Sandler in it.”
His mom, Meghan Cox is his role model.
“She always seems to push herself even when she has nothing else to give,” Clinton said.
Making the state tournament and working as a team are his biggest hopes for his teammates and himself this season.
“I want this year to be unforgettable for us. I want us to learn more about one another and have some fun while playing.”
After high school Clinton plans on attending college to be a coach. “I hope to attend Arkansas University one day but that’s a big reach.”
