Name: Titus Yearout 
School:  Lapwai Wildcats 
Grade: Sophomore 
Sport: Basketball
Position: Point Guard

How did you first get interested in your sport?
Well, you could say my first interest in basketball was when I was really young because I’ve always had a basketball in my hand. Also, growing up in such a rich basketball town like Lapwai has played a huge role in my love for the game. 

If you play other sports, which is your favorite and why?
Another sport I play is football. I play quarterback and defensive back. I like it because of the physicality and the preparation for the game at the end of the week. But if I had to pick between the two sports, I would choose basketball. Basketball has taught me so much and I have a strong love for the game. And, I plan on playing basketball at the next level. 

What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from high school sports?
Hard work pays off.  So, the endless hours and dedication I put into sports pay off and I can tell. But the support from God, my family, my team, coaches and fans makes it all happen. Everyone believes in me and I go out and do the best I can to represent my name, where I’m from, and my culture. 

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve received is from my coach. It’s that someone is always watching. So, every time I go out on the court, I give it my all and hold my composure, even if the game is crazy.

What has been your favorite high school memory so far?
My favorite high school memory so far is being able to play with the friends I grew up with since day one. They’re like my brothers.  It’s a great feeling when a small school like us goes out and beats way bigger schools with a team full of sophomores. At the end of the day, it’s us having heart and never backing down from a challenge 

What coaches or teachers have made the biggest impact on your athletic career?
Well, both my cousins who played last year but are off playing in college have impacted me a lot. Seeing them coming from a small school and accomplishing their goals is great. It shows you can still make it and do what you love. My coach, Zach Eastman, has been a big impact. It’s his first year coaching, but we have a strong connection and he is willing to do what it takes to not only make me better but all the players on my team. 

Which teammates have you really connected with during high school?
I enjoy competing with all of them because we are like a family. I can say that I really enjoy playing with them because each and every one of them has heart and doesn’t quit. And they are willing to listen to me and we work as a team to go out and win games. 

Is there anyone in your family who has helped you get to where you are today?
My mom and dad have a huge influence on me. I see them and how hard they work and it makes me want to work just as hard.  But the main thing that has got me to where I am today is my faith, and I’m thankful I can do everything for the ones above. 

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
Something most people don’t know about me is that I have six younger siblings and that I am the oldest. Being the oldest, I have lots of responsibilities and I try to be the best role model for all of them.  Another thing most people don’t realize is that I train a lot. The things I do on the court have come from endless hours of work and goals I set for myself.

What about this season are you looking forward to the most?
The thing I am looking forward to the most this season is getting a state championship. This would be a huge accomplishment and is one of my many goals. I would love to bring a banner back to Lapwai. It would be a great honor, especially knowing of all the great Lapwai teams that have brought them back in the past.