Repping number three on his jersey, senior Camden Wright is in the heat of his third year on the Granite Bay High School varsity basketball team.

Wright has become a commanding player on the court through his high school years, scoring three-pointers and showcasing his talent in the midst of opposing teams while working closely as a captain for the team that has become a second family over time.

Inspired by his dad, who played as a guard at the University of Oregon, Wilson began his athletic career at eight years old, with his individual passion for the sport growing tremendously as he gained experience and learned from the people around him.

Over the span of his senior season, Wright has stepped up to the line and scored consistently both home and away, helping to push the Grizzlies to a possible spot in the upcoming playoffs. In one notable game, Wright shot seven three-pointers against Rocklin High School this past January to assist his team in taking a 73-60 win. He has maintained a focused mindset and internalized one primary goal: victory on the court.

“[Winning is] all I’m really focused on,” Wright said. “Get my team in the game and win.”

Ever since the beginning of his varsity career, Coach Jason Sitterud has openly praised Wright for his drive and dedication as an athlete, as well as his steady improvement over time and willingness to grow in his abilities.

“[Wright] loves to play and loves to compete,” Sitterud said. “It’s always kind of fun to see that passion.”

Having coached basketball for over 30 years, Sitterud has learned to promote teamwork as a crucial part of finding success during gameplay, stating that good things happen when athletes play for each other and not simply in their own interest.

Regardless of the results of the game, Wright has highlighted his reliance on the connection he has developed with his team. Having gone through both exponential wins and tight losses together, the players on the GBHS varsity men’s basketball team have solidified their bond as a brotherhood.

“You just gotta be family,” Wright said. “You’ve gotta know everybody’s ins and outs. That shows on the court.”

Team chemistry is a common thread between the varsity basketball athletes, with teammates supporting each other both on and off the court. As put by junior Justice Pangelinan, the team takes “Grizzly Family” to the next level, and Wright is a key player in doing so.

From the perspective of his fellow players, Wright has taken on a leadership role within the varsity team, supporting teammates on their off days and pushing them to their fullest potential whenever possible.

“Cam is definitely a leader,” Pangelinan said. “He’s one of our best players, and I totally look up to him.”

Myles Mike, a junior on his team, agrees that Wright has leadership qualities that allow him to “slow the game down” and make game-changing plays while simultaneously knowing what each of his teammates need to do and when.

When asked about the difference between a good and great player, Mike explained that a great player does not just play well themself, but also brings out the best in their team as a whole.

Wright’s teammates credit his success in-game to the time and effort he pours into his craft aside from mandatory practices. His dedication to constant improvement allows him to analyze the best ways to navigate the court and communicate his observations with other players.

With his experience and determination, Wright has the ability to focus on his gameplay in the midst of tough opponents and use the strengths of his team in order to bring the Grizzlies to victory.