Basketball takes a lot of endurance, strength, and finesse, and Senior Point Guard Alex Bruce is definitely strong in all these categories. The Cents struggled last year, only winning two games, but this year, they’ll definitely start off with a stronger lead with the help of Athlete-of-the-Month Bruce.

   Not only is Bruce’s leadership appreciated on the court, but he is also popular off the court for his outgoing, spirited personality. Going to most football games, Alex is always one to show up with overwhelming spirit, standing in front of the Roman Legion [UC High’s Student Section], hyping up the other students. Bruce is an incredible basketball player and has an outstanding personality, a great combination.

   “I love basketball, because I get to spend time with friends and practice something I’m passionate about,” said Bruce.

   He is definitely one of our harder workers,” said Coach Terry Stonebraker. “He brings a lot to the team, handling the ball pretty well and getting us into our play.” His love for basketball is definitely shown while playing, not only as a leader but as a player. He is passionate about the sport and what it stands for, which contributes to his drive.

   Basketball is not only about individual skill but the chemistry and trust between the teammates. Bruce makes sure to maintain good chemistry with his teammates. He explained that trust is also needed for plays, such as passing the ball, because players must anticipate the pass.

    Bruce  has big goals for his senior year. He said, “I hope we can win more games and make CIF.” The team has some new players this year,  so hopefully they will also contribute to the team’s success.

    “I am proud of my brother because he gets good grades and is good at basketball,” said Sophomore Ben Bruce. He believes his brother does  everything to his best ability, on and off the court.

   Basketball means a lot to Bruce, and Bruce means a lot to the UC High Basketball Team.

   As point guard, he holds one of the most difficult positions on the team. One website about basketball fundamentals said,  “The point guard is often thought of an extension of the coach on the floor, or the ‘quarterback,’ or floor general. So the point guard must have a close working relationship with the coaches” (coachesclipboard.net). Stonebraker belives he fills this role well.

    One of Bruce’s greatest skills is ball handling.  “Ball handling is the most important part of the game of basketball. Included in this skill is both dribbling and passing. Since it is one of the most basic skills, it is often overlooked in importance; however, without ball handling, the ball could not be advanced up the court or offenses could not be run effectively,” according to a website about the game (basketball.com).