Sophomore Zaiden Montelongo is a sophomore at Greeley West High School who made his varsity basketball debut last night, a 75-47 defeat to Berthoud. This is Montelongo’s second year playing for the school and only third year playing over all.

Montelongo is very excited to be able to play on varsity after last year’s season and under a new head basketball coach, coach Mathew Merriott. He played on the JV and C team last year but after a long summer of continuous hours of going to the gym and practice, consisting of dribbling and shooting drills, he is going to have his time to shine on the court for GWHS.

Montelongo said that he had to overcome many obstacles including people that don’t believe in him and talk down on his game. The main obstacle is learning to play basketball in a few short years at a higher level to compete.

Montelongo’s routine before games consists of stretching, getting repetitive shots up and mentaling preparing for the game which includes taking deep breaths to relax. 

Montelongo’s favorite basketball player has always been Michael Jordan because of his humble mentality and composure he has had on and off the court. He believes that having the same mentality will help him in the future and being able to juggle the load of being a student athlete now will also help him be successful.

Montelongo’s ability to handle the ball and speed could help the team in a successful season.