Varsity boys basketball Angel Avila, a junior at Channel Islands High school, reminds himself that “things have to get worse before they can get better.”
Known for being the most vocal and one of the best shooters on the team, Avila stays dedicated to the sport, being very knowledgeable when it comes to the team and the program. Watching his big brother, as well as famous basketball players, play ball sparked his interest in the game and led him to start playing in 8th grade.
Upon entering high school, Avila found himself on the junior varsity team. During one game in his sophomore year, for what was supposed to be a temporary fill-in for a varsity game, led to Angel’s move-up to varsity permanently.
“Angel is very bright and articulate, yes. But he is also very knowledgeable when it comes to basketball and what we do as a team and program,” says Coach Eddie Ramos.
Avila found his promotion to varsity as a reassurance that his hard work was paying off and an opportunity to enhance his work ethic.
Evidently he was right. He ended the season with the most blocks and 3-pointers on the team. Furthermore, he helped his team place second in the Citrus Coast League and get to the second round in the CIF playoffs.
“Angel has always been a mature young man. However, his behavior has evolved from that of a teenage boy to a very thoughtful young man who no longer speaks in cliches but with well-thought-out opinions and ideas,” Coach Ramos added.
The student athlete averaged 10.9 points per game and 98 three-pointers total.
Avila warns that playing basketball can be hard. He explains that playing the sport is not all dependent on physical characteristics/features and skills but on your mindset as well, needing confidence and a belief in yourself.
Avila hopes to continue playing in college and pursue a career in basketball, hoping to stay close to home. He gives a shout out to teammates Chris and Angel, saying “they know who they are.” He also thanks Coach Ramos for giving him the opportunity.
