By Elizabeth Contreras

VYPE: What first drew you to basketball?
 Julius Mitchell: What first drew me to basketball was when my Grandpa was watching Russell Westbrook and the Oklahoma City Thunder play. I’ve been in love with the game ever since.

VYPE: How would you describe your playing style or your role on the team?
 JM: I feel like my role is to be a leader on the defensive end as well as the offensive end. I can score when we need it, but I also bring energy on defense.

VYPE: What’s one skill you’ve worked hardest to improve, and how did you do it?
 JM: I’ve worked hardest to improve my scoring this season. I improved it by staying in the gym and focusing on my offensive weaknesses.

VYPE: How do you handle setbacks—like tough losses or personal mistakes during a game, or unexpected cha
 JM: When adversity happens, I try to stay calm and pray, whether it is after a tough loss or an injury.

VYPE: What part of your team’s chemistry or culture makes it special?
 JM: What is special about our team is how well we all get along. There is no animosity between us.

VYPE: Is there a particular game or opponent you always look forward to playing?
 JM: I always look forward to playing Northwest Classen.

VYPE: What does being a good leader (or a good teammate) mean to you?
 JM: To me, being a good leader means keeping your team encouraged while pushing them to be their best.

VYPE: What was one goal you set for yourself this season?
 JM: One goal I set for myself this season was to average 16 points per game, and right now I’m at 17 points per game.

VYPE: What are your future plans—do they include playing basketball after high school?
 JM: I plan to play basketball in college after high school and hopefully even professionally one day.