We spoke to McPherson Basketball player Alexis Dukes to find out how her year is going.

VYPE: What are your personal goals for the year?

My personal goals for the year are to commit to a college to play basketball, get good grades, and work hard.

VYPE: What is the most fun you have had in the last year?

The most fun I have had in the last year is all the team bonding activities with my basketball teammates.

VYPE: Who is your favorite teacher from any grade, and why?

My favorite teacher would be Mrs. Krug, the Spanish teacher. She is always positive and optimistic no matter the circumstances. Though I am no longer in her class she still greets me and shows she cares about me.

VYPE: What is your favorite athletic memory?

My favorite athletic memory was this year when we played the first round of substate and had a special guest, Brailee Green, as our honorary captain on our bench with us.

Brailee is a 9-year-old girl battling an inoperable, non-cancerous, brain tumor. My coach Christopher Strathman put it together and we all had a lot of fun. Brailee is a close friend to me and it was nice seeing the town come together and support not only the team but Brailee as well.

VYPE: What teammate has left the biggest impression on you and why?

The teammate that has left the biggest impression on me is Jordan Sears. Jordan has been my teammate since 2nd grade and has gone through many wins and losses with me. Though I’ve only had her on my team for 2 years of high school I can say she’s brought a positive impact to not only the team but me individually.

She was there for me when I got injured and was in the gym with me encouraging me every step of the way to get back on the court with my teammates. She is also a hard worker and has motivated me to work hard too.

VYPE: What is your favorite part of being on this team?

My favorite part of being on this team is the connection we all share together. No one is left out and we all understand what it’s like to win. When we lose no one blames anyone we just pick each other up and move on.

VYPE: You can pick any place for a summer vacation. Where do you go, and who do you take with you?

If I could pick anywhere for a vacation it would be somewhere tropical, out of this Kansas weather, with my family.

VYPE: If we gave you $500 and you had to spend it in the next 24 hours, what would you spend it on?

If I had $500 to spend in 24hrs I would go to Walmart with my “Walmart gang” teammates and go on a shopping spree.

VYPE: Do you participate in any community service projects?

With my Jobs for America’s Graduates – Kansas (Jag-K) program, I participate in many community service projects throughout the year.

What Clubs or Campus groups are you involved with and why?

I am in Kays, Stuco, International club, Educators rising, and FCA. I joined these clubs because they are a lot of fun and help me feel accomplished. It also involves me with what goes on in the school and teaches me how to be a leader.

Are you involved in academic excellence activities such as the National Honor Society, Student Council, or other academic clubs?

I am the secretary of the Student Council.