High Point basketball captains leading the way

SUSSEX — When asked to mention some of the positive attributes of certain athlete’s on the roster, it can sometimes cause a head coach to struggle to find the proper answer.

When High Point High School varsity boys' basketball coach Jesse Strehl thinks about the strengths demonstrated by team captains Kyle Adams (guard) and Adam Walton (forward), it’s not difficult for him to answer questions — and that’s because both seniors contribute amply for the Wildcats, not just this season but throughout their high school careers.

There are a number of important reasons why Adams and Walton were named as captains. Strehl mentions a few of the many reasons they are guiding the team on and off the court this winter.

“Experience: Adam is a four-year varsity letterman and three-year starter," Strehl said. “Kyle is a three-year varsity letterman and three-year starter for us. Work Ethic: Both of these guys put a lot of time and effort into developing their game on the court as well as in the weight room. Leadership: In both games and practices, and both of these young men do well in the classroom and are well respected by their peers and teaching staff. They are both Honor Roll students."

A sign that an athlete is truly committed to their sport is when it comes time to pay attention to details — knowing their own strengths, as well of those areas of the sport in which they need to improve. On a consistent basis, Adams and Walton work on a variety of ways to make themselves more effective on the court.

“[They have worked to improve upon] everything [from the first day of practice to this point of the season]," Strehl said. “Their attention to detail on offense and defense has taken their game and our teams to the next level."

Strehl said he enjoys the way his captains are always there to aid their teammates, whether that means helping them to correct their mistakes, giving them encouragement or congratulating them on a strong effort.

“They have been setting a great example for the younger players to follow on what it takes to be successful," Strehl said.

Notes: In games played through Feb. 5, Adams had 17 points per game ... He was the High Point Athlete of the Week (for the week of Jan. 20) ... Adams also had an eye-opening 38 three-point basket through that stretch ... Walton was averaging 14 points and substantial amount of rebounds (10) per game through Feb. 5. Walton was named the Most Valuable Player at the Wallkill Valley Tournament ... On Monday, Feb. 17, the Wildcats have a home game scheduled versus Morris Hills.