East County Athlete of the Week: Marcus Schade

Marcus Schade is a rising senior guard on the Braden River High boys basketball team. Pirates Head Coach Dwight Gilmer said Schade has taken his game to a new level this summer. Schade was named a Top Performer at the Gibbs Summer League showcase by basketball scout Kevin Perper on June 30. Schade also scored 30 points June 24 in a 2023 Florida Association of Basketball Coaches Camp game against Clearwater High. 

When did you start playing basketball?

I started in eighth grade. I had played baseball before then, but I lost my love for it. Basketball just has more going on. I have to think so much more while I'm playing. 

What is the appeal to you?

I like the team aspect. Everyone has a role to play, and you need everyone (to contribute), not just one or two people. 

What is your best skill?

Right now, I'm having success attacking the basket. I don't stop shooting. I'm feeling confident. 

What have you been working to improve?

My defense and my athleticism, especially my agility, my speed. 

What is your favorite basketball memory?

Last year, our Braden River team won the Shorecrest Prep holiday tournament. That was big for us as a team and I had a few big games in the tournament.(Schade scored 42 points on Dec. 28 in a 63-54 win against St. Petersburg Catholic.)

What are your goals for next season?

I want to reach 1,000 points for my career. I think I'm approximately 300 points away right now, so it's doable. 

What is your favorite food?

I have to go with pizza rolls right now. 

What is your favorite movie?

Either "Jurassic Park" or "Jurassic World," something from that series. I like it a lot.

What is your favorite school subject?

I like math most of the time. I'm pretty good at it. 

What are your hobbies?

I like to swim. I'm either doing that or basketball or hanging out with friends. 

Which superpower would you pick?

Invisibility. I could get out of any situations I don't want to be in. 

What is the best advice you have received?

'We' over 'me.' Basketball is not an individual sport. Coach Gilmer helped me see that. Everyone has to get involved in order to win. 

Finish this sentence: "Marcus Schade is …"

Spontaneous. I'm different all the time.