Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Yvette Brown

Yvette Brown is a sophomore on the Booker High girls basketball team. Brown has averaged 12 points and 9.8 rebounds over her last five games. Her play has helped the Tornadoes climb back to .500; as of Jan. 30, Booker is 9-9 and the No. 1 seed for the Florida High School Athletic Association Class 4A District 11 tournament, which begins Feb. 5. 

When did you start playing basketball?

I started for real in sixth grade at Lee Middle in Bradenton. We had a great team that year and it helped me fall in love with the game. It has been the same this year, coming in here (from Bayshore High). We have just clicked and it has been great. 

What is your best skill?

Attacking. I always feel like I'm the best on the court at attacking the basket and going downhill and being able to finish through contact. 

What have you been working to improve?

My left hand. I'm naturally right-handed, so my left hand is not as strong. I try to dribble and finish layups with my left hand as much as I can to get better. 

What is your favorite memory?

This year it is definitely the Sarasota game (from Jan. 18.) It was back and forth the whole game and we ended up getting the win (56-54). Close games are always the most fun to play. 

What has sparked Booker's turnaround in January?

We want to prove to everybody that they should not forget about us. Our coaches tell us not to give up and to prove everyone else wrong. It has been working. 

What is your favorite food?

Seafood, like crabs and things like that. 

What is your favorite school subject?

Biology. My teacher (Zachary Nersten) makes it fun for us. 

What is your favorite TV show?

Right now it is "Grey's Anatomy."

What are your hobbies?

When I have down time, I like to sleep. (Laughs.) 

What is the best advice you have received?

Don't let anybody tell you that you're good. You have not made it anywhere yet. You can't get a big head. Stay humble and keep working hard. 

Finish this sentence: "Yvette Brown is …"

Fun.