 You don't usually see someone walking down the street carrying a huge trophy in his or her arms. That's why when I saw 15 year old Devon Wade, I had to get an interview. He had just come from the Boys and Girls of Harlem's Spring Invitational basketball tournament, which he had won. Events such as these give young people a chance to show off their skills and to be seen by different high schools. Devon, a Harlem native, attends Christ the King High School in Queens, NY. Christ the King, well known for its basketball program, accepted Wade after seeing him play. He said that playing ball takes "hard work, dedication and love for the game." His hectic schedule proves just that. After Devon comes home from school he does 500 jump shots, 150 free throws, completes his homework and works out. To most people this day would seem incredibly stressful, but to Wade, "It's fun. It relieves stress." Devon Wade's influences include his stepfather as well as the NBA. He got into playing basketball around the age of 6. He feels that he has always been able to play, but it was his first coach, Mr. Heron, who taught him the skills necessary to be a successful ball player. He also told Devon that he could pay for college by playing basketball instead of placing the financial burden on his family. His parents are also quite supportive of his athletic career as long as it doesn't interfere with his academics. When asked if he intended on ever giving up on playing ball, Devon said, "Naw, never give up on anything if you really want it."
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