Athlete of the Week: Aiden Howard, Maxey Elementary

West Orange Boys & Girls Club 7-year-old Aiden Howard began playing basketball only one year ago. In that year, he has grown to become an important part of the club’s summer basketball program, which played its last game Saturday, July 25. 

Howard, a third-grader at Maxey Elementary School, learned the fundamentals of basketball through the Boys & Girls Club’s summer youth basketball camps. He discovered his talents on the defensive side of the ball during the camp’s weekly Saturday games. 

What do you enjoy most about basketball? 

The thing I enjoy most about playing basketball is being part of a team. 

When did you start basketball, and why did you join? 

I started playing basketball when I was 6 years old, because my older brother was playing, and I wanted to join.

What is your best memory in basketball — individually or with your team?

My favorite memory was the game when I shot the game-winning shot. 

What has basketball taught you? 

Basketball has taught me about being part of a team, and I have learned how to be an accountable person. 

How would you describe yourself as a teammate?

I think others would describe me as a defensive player (who) puts in the work every play. 

What advice would you give someone who just started playing basketball? 

My advice to someone who just joined would be practice while you’re at home in your free time. Also don’t give up even when it gets tough. 

If you were a coach, what speech would you give the team?

I would tell them they’re doing a good job and to keep up their good work. We are still in the game until the buzzer goes off. 

What is your pre-game ritual?

Before every game, I always drink water, eat a light meal and warm up my shots before the game starts. 

Who do you look up to the most? 

I admire my older brother, Malachi. 

What is something new you would like to learn?

I am looking forward to learning to read music and how to play an instrument in the future. 

Where would you want to live if you weren’t in Florida?

I would love to live in New York if I didn’t live in Florida. 

If you won the lottery, what would you do with the money? 

If I won the lottery, I would buy a home and also give a donation to the homeless organization. 

What future career do you want to have? 

I have the dream of becoming an astronaut when I grow up. 

If you became famous, what would it be for? 

I would become famous for doing a prank on my older sister, Essence, who I enjoy annoying. 

If you had to pick a spirit animal, which would you choose?

My spirit animal would be a dinosaur. 

Why did you pick your jersey number?

My jersey number was randomly assigned to me.