Athlete of the Week: Jeff Casseus

Braden River senior Jeff Casseus had a team-high 17 points and 11 rebounds, helping lead the Pirates to a 64-44 victory over rival Lakewood Ranch Jan. 11. The 6-foor-7 center followed up his performance with 12 points in the Pirates 46-44 victory over Venice Jan. 13. Here is an inside look at this week’s Athlete of the Week.

How does the Lakewood Ranch game compare to other games you’ve played in?
Something great happened in the Lakewood Ranch game. Our team was disjointed for a little bit, but we came together and had a breakout game as a family — not just as a team.

What was it like for you to have such a great performance against Lakewood Ranch?
My performance came from my guards. They shared the ball and believed in me to get them the rebounds, so they could fire up shots. Having them know I would be there gave us confidence and helped us win the game.

How did you get into basketball?
This is my fourth year playing. I’d never played organized basketball, and I was horrible my freshman year. My JV coach got me playing, and I’ve been playing from then on.

What do you enjoy the most about basketball?
The camaraderie I share with my teammates.

Do you prefer football or basketball?
Basketball. I feel like you’re more involved in the outcome. In football, you can make a mistake, and the play can still come out great. In basketball, you’re more involved in the play and whether your team does good or bad.

Do you know what you want to be when you grow up?
Something with computer science and engineering, and if not that, then a chef. I love to cook.

Do you have a signature dish?
Balsamic parsley vinegar flanks steaks with angel hair pasta.

Do you have a favorite subject?
Engineering. I love working with my hands, and I like to say that I’m good with technology. I’m learning every day.

Who is your biggest role model?
My mom. She made me the person I am today, and I like to think that’s a good thing. She’s very tough.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Japan. I think they’re so technically advanced, and I would love to explore that one day.