The Strawberry Crest boys basketball team wrapped up district play Jan. 17, with a 60-43 win over Brandon, led by senior guard Malik Channer and his 26 points. The next day, Channer dropped 20 points on Lakeland in a 56-52 loss at the Polk State College MLK Holiday Shootout. Channer, the team’s leading scorer at 12.7 points per game, is one of the team’s three co-captains.
What would you say is better about this season than last?
We have a better overall record and only graduated three of four seniors. This year, we’re a senior-heavy team, and we have a lot of experience, so we’re able to outplay most of the other teams.
What are you hoping to do this year?
I’m hoping to go as far as possible — including states. We have the pieces to do it, we’ve just got to bring it together.
Any college prospects?
I’ve gotten a couple of looks from University of Tampa, FIU, Stetson, some Florida teams. Nebraska actually had some interest in me at some point. Coach knows most of them.
What are some of your hobbies outside of basketball?
Hanging out with friends, playing cards. President, Tonk, stuff like that.
What do you like better: NBA or college?
Oh, I definitely like college more. Everybody’s got heart in college, and they’ve all got something to play for. NBA is more like entertainment. I’m a Duke fan, even though I know I’m not going to go to Duke. I like Jabari Parker. I also like Marquette.
I know you say you don’t like the NBA, but do you play 2K?
Oh, yes, of course! I run it with the (Los Angeles) Clippers or the Memphis Grizzlies. I run plays in 2K, and everyone calls me weird, but it works. I use (Zach) Randolph or (Marc) Gasol in the post with Memphis, and just lob it with the Clippers.