ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Jacob Newman

Editor's note: This version has been updated from the print version in our Dec. 24 edition of the Windermere Observer.

In his first year with the CFCA boys basketball team (8-6 as of Dec. 29) after transferring from Heritage Christian in Kissimmee, junior wing player Jacob Newman has made an immediate impact for the Eagles. Through 14 games, Newman is averaging 18.4 points per game — best on the team. In a win over Palatka Dec. 29, Newman scored 21 points to lead the Eagles and he also helped power CFCA to an important win against Evans Dec. 22 with a team-high 22 points.

What’s it been like getting acclimated in your first season at CFCA?

Well, the people at CFCA just made me feel welcome. My teammates made me feel like a family — I adjusted better than I thought I would.

What game would you say has been your best to date?

I would probably say our win against Agape Christian (Dec. 15, 53-50). I rebounded well, and I finished really good (at the rim).

Which teammate have you developed the most chemistry with so far?

Dante Treacy. It’s really good to play with an elite point guard — Dante has a really good basketball IQ and finds easy ways to get me a basket.

How do you like playing for head coach Jonathan McClintock?

He pushes me harder than anyone else — he just wants me to be the best player I can be. He works with me on getting low on the defensive end and just being versatile.

Is there a game on the schedule once the team returns in January that you are anticipating?

I’m really looking forward to competing against IMG Academy (Jan. 21, 2016, at home). I’m just ready to go out there and compete.

Who is your favorite player to watch and model your game after?

My favorite player ever is Michael Jordan. When I have nothing else to do, I’ll watch highlights (from his career). I admire his competitiveness — he gives it his all every second he’s on the court.

The team has played a tough schedule so far this season. What’s that been like?

It’s been really hard, but we try to learn from the losses and just improve to become a better team in the end.

What’s your favorite Christmas movie?

“Home Alone 2.”

Do you have any interest in seeing “Star Wars: The Force Awakens?”

No. As a kid, I never really watched “Star Wars.”

What is the last movie you saw in theaters, and was it any good?

I saw “Dope.” I liked it. What I liked about it was that it was about a teenager who was trying to find out what he wanted to do with his life.

What is your favorite sport to watch on television beside basketball?

Besides basketball, I would probably say college football is my favorite sport to watch. My favorite team is Alabama.

What are you hoping to study in college?

I want to study mass communication. If basketball doesn’t work out, I think I would like to be like a sports analyst.

What’s your New Year’s Resolution?

To try and get all A’s next semester in school and to try to make it to state for basketball.