By Jay Hoberecht

Ethan Ensminger is a senior at Pond Creek-Hunter High School and the winner of the Stevens Ford VYPE Pre-Season basketball poll in northwest Oklahoma. 

As any coach knows, having very few seniors on your team can be both a good and bad thing.  Coach Darrin Jones has made the most of it because Ethan is “everything you want in a student-athlete.”  Coach Jones talked about Ethan’s work ethic, his character, his leadership and commented he “creates culture”.  Ensminger is within reach of scoring over 1,000 points in his high school career.

Ethan moved to Pond Creek in fifth grade, met Coach Jones and fell in love with the game of basketball.  Ethan also plays football, track and golf.  He clearly loves basketball and wants to play at the next level.  A goal he will likely reach.

I asked Ethan about some high school highlights.  He mentioned a game against Cimarron his sophomore year when he scored 38 points and another game against DCLA when he scored 34 points.  Coach Jones told me he could score but he also told me Ethan is focused on helping his teammates and does whatever it takes to win.  Ethan also mentioned a highlight for him in his sophomore year was playing with his best friend Corbin Burnham.  Burnham helped him learn about leadership and teamwork. 

So, I ask Ethan about what it takes to be a good teammate.  He thought a moment and replied, “Being able to lead by example without discouragement.  Praising the good stuff!”

Ethan has a new car for him, a 2010 Dodge Challenger, so he works at KFC in Enid.   But, working doesn’t stop Ethan from shooting every morning all year long, no matter what sport he is playing.

Ethan wants to attend college and play basketball and earn a degree in business focusing on real estate.

It will be fun to follow the Panthers this year and watch Ethan Ensminger reach for his goals!

Join me in the gym!