East County Athlete of the Week: Marcus Schade

Marcus Schade is a 6-foot-3 junior guard on the Braden River High boys basketball team. Schade leads the Pirates, who have a 13-6 record, with 16 points per game. 

When did you start playing basketball?

Eighth grade is when I started playing competitively. In eighth grade I played on a competitive team for the first time and then tried out for the high school team the next year and made it. 

What is the appeal to you?

I was a baseball player first, but baseball was always a bit slow to me. Basketball is more up and down and I enjoy that more. I like the teamwork, too. It's just more fun. 

What is your best skill?

I can get to the rim downhill. That's my best skill on offense. On defense, I can poke away balls and get them when they're loose.

What have you been working to improve?

I have been improving my overall athleticism and my shot-making ability, like one-dribble, pull-up shots and other off-the-dribble shots rather than just catch-and-shoot shots. 

What is your favorite memory?

My freshman year, my teammate Dean (Itraish) — he's still on the team now — he hadn't played much that year, but in the final game of the season he hit a free throw at the end of the game. In the locker room we all jumped on him and splashed water on him. It was a cool moment. 

What has been the biggest reason for the team's success this season?

We have played more together. Last year it was like we were individuals doing our own thing. I think a lot of the change is because of our coach (Dwight Gilmer) and the staff. We're all hanging out outside of basketball now as well as playing together. 

What next steps can be taken as the postseason approaches?

We need to play harder. We need to get back in transition, set our feet and get ready to play defense instead of lackadaisically jogging back. We need more intensity. 

What is your favorite food?

I love a medium steak with some garlic butter. 

What is your favorite movie?

I have to say "Kung Fu Panda."

What is your favorite school subject?

Math. It's the one that comes easiest to me. 

Which superpower would you pick?

That's going to be flying. It just seems cool. 

What are your hobbies?

I like to go through American Ninja Warrior courses. I actually used to help coach it over at EVO Athletics, but they don't do it as much anymore. I still like to help out whenever they do, though. 

What is the best advice you have received?

We have a sign in our locker room that says "Us > Them, We > I." That is impactful to me, especially in basketball. When you're working with people, you're going to get things done better if you're together. 

Finish this sentence: "Marcus Schade is …"

Spontaneous. I'm different every day.