Each week, “The Patriot” picks an athlete who contributes to his or her sport. Junior Marcus James is a dedicated shooting guard of the men’s varsity ’A’ conference championship winning basketball team.

Q: How old were you when you started playing basketball, and who was your inspiration?

A: I was seven when I started playing and my inspiration is Kobe Bryant because he is a good athlete on and off the court.

Q: What’s one of your best moments while playing basketball at JC?

A: Winning the MIAA ’A’ conference championship.

Q: What do you think you contribute to the team on and off the court?

A: On the court I bring energy and defense. Off the court I’m a shoulder for the team to lean on.

Q: What kind of relationship do you have with your team?

A: A good one, everyone hangs out on the weekends. We go to parties, the movies, and the mall and over each other’s houses.

Q: How do you balance school, basketball, and your social life?

A: I practice basketball when I’m at school. When I get home I study and do homework and the team has a study hall before practice, which knocks out half of the load. On the weekend when I don’t have practice or a game, I go to the movies and chill.

Q: Do you plan on playing basketball in college?

A: Yes, because it will potentially pay my way for college and it will keep me out of trouble and occupied.

Imani Love is a sports editor for “The Patriot” and jcpatriot.com