Attacking the rim, shooting and defending are only some of Senior Landon Carlson’s many skills on the court. Returning to UC High’s Boys Basketball Team for his fourth year, he has plenty of great experience to help the team this year.

   Carlson was introduced to basketball during middle school in the sixth grade when he first moved to University City from Mira Mesa. He explained how he “fell in love with [basketball],” appreciating the game and the people it introduced him to.

   Carlson has developed plenty of strengths during his high school career. He started off playing on junior varsity (JV) his freshman year. Head Coach Alex Golland said, “When he played freshman year, I used to go to his games and I thought that he would dominate, because he was bigger than everyone else.” The following season, his sophomore year, he proved his spot on varsity.

   Last year, as a junior, he was given the title of defensive player of the year. His defensive skills are just one of the great strengths that he contributes to the team. Golland said, “I wouldn’t say that he’s the best at anything, but he’s very good at everything.” Playing multiple positions, Carlson can do it all. “He’s a good two-way player and has lots of things going for him,” said Golland.

   “Landon contributes to the team by playing defense at a high level as well as finishing contested layups [making it through the person who is guarding you and trying to block your shot] at a high percentage,” said Junior Jaeden Robley, who has played alongside Carlson throughout most of his years.

   Carlson is hoping to win this year’s MVP (most valuable player) award by the end of the season. Putting in the work before, during, and after school, he shows that the number 1 he wears on his jersey is there for a reason.

   Though initially unsure of his role on the team, over time Carlson has gained a clearer understanding of his strengths. “It’s hard having an off night, people determining how good they are based on one night,” said Carlson. But he is well aware that every sport is challenging, with ups and downs being part of the experience.

   This hard work has its goals, as Golland, Carlson, and Robley are all hoping to take home the title of CIF and League Champions this season. “Our goals are to win our first League title since 2009, as well as to win CIF Division 2,” said Golland.

   Carlson said, “This year we have the best chance of winning that we have had in all my years here.” Last season, the Varsity Boys Basketball Team had a total of 16 wins and 13 losses, as well as 5 wins and 5 losses during League according to MaxPreps, a sports statistic tracker. They had one of their most notable wins during playoffs when they beat Sage Creek (63-59), the previous year’s CIF Champions (maxpreps.com).

   Robley said, “I have very high hopes for this season.”