ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Steven Ross

The East County Observer and Bogey’s Restaurant and Sports Pub have teamed up to showcase the East County’s top athletes. Each recipient’s article will be featured on the restaurant’s wall.

Braden River junior Steven Ross hit a game-tying three-pointer with 13 seconds left in regulation of the Class 4A-District 10 championship Feb. 11 to send the game into overtime. Ross finished with 10 points as the host Pirates won their first district title with a 38-37 victory over Lakewood Ranch. Here is an inside look at this week’s Athlete of the Week.

What was going through your mind when you went up for the game tying shot?
It was crazy. At first coach (Matt Nesser) called a play to set Tre (Bryant) up, but then he called for me to motion and attack. The player who was guarding me backed up, and I took the shot. I still don’t know how I made it.

How does it feel to have captured the program’s first district title?
It feels good. We fought, played hard and didn’t give up.

How did you get into basketball?
I’ve been playing since I was 6 years old. I just asked my mom one day if I could try out.

Do you prefer basketball or football?
Basketball — (especially) now after the feeling that I had from Friday night.

What do you want to be when you grow up?
I want to major in sports medicine.

Is there a particular player that you model yourself after?
Chris Paul. He’s a point guard like me, and I like his style of play.

Who is your biggest role model?
My mom because of everything she does for me.

What’s your favorite movie?
“Love and Basketball.” I could watch it all day long.

What’s your favorite subject?
Math. I’m good with numbers.

Do you have any siblings?
I have two brothers and two sisters.

If you could go anywhere in the world where would it be and why?
Jamaica for the beach.