Cody Gibbons

By Wayne E. Rivet

Staff Writer

Cody Gibbons likes the direction the Lake Region varsity boys’ basketball team is taking this season.

“Coach has changed a lot of things, and guys are really committed to the team. People are buying into the team aspect,” the junior forward said.

Although the Lakers lack overall size that some teams possess, the team is enjoying some early success because of their willingness to work together, especially on the defensive end, where a quick yet rugged Gibbons has consistently battled for each loose ball.

“We had our best defensive performance of the young season during Saturday’s win over Freeport.  It was a team effort, but Cody’s defensive performance in that game does standout,” Laker Coach J.P. Yorkey said. “Cody held Freeport’s Chandler Birmingham (one of our league’s best shooters) to four points over the last three quarters. This was a turning point in the game as with Cody, with the support of his teammates behind him, shutting down Chandler, Freeport had a hard time scoring.  We held them to 13 points over the second and third quarters combined including 4 points in the third quarter.”

Cody also had his most well-rounded offensive game as a varsity player.

“Yes, he has had double-doubles before and he only scored 7 points in this one, but he was very, very efficient,” Coach Yorkey said. “He played within his role, made great reads on offense finding the open man, making the extra pass, attacking the rim, and he showed of his very underrated shooting stroke nailing a wide open three. Cody was very much in control of his body on defense and on offense. This is something to build on.”

In recognition of his strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Cody is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.” Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed t-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

The Gibbons File

Name: Cody Gibbbons

Year in School: Junior

Town: Naples

Parents: Jim and Mary Gibbons

School Activities/Sports: Varsity football, basketball and baseball

Q. Why did you choose basketball? CG. I love the game.

Q. What do you hope to accomplish this season? CG. Hopefully, (win) a Gold Ball.

Q. What do you enjoy the most? CG. My team and dunking over coach in practice.

Q. What do you like the least? CG. I really hate losing.

Q. What makes you successful? CG. I work really hard and dedicate a lot of my time to my team.

Q. What would your dream moment be? CG. Having “our” group back for senior year like Sam, Ben, Erik and I — like back in the day.

Q. What has basketball taught you? CG. To be a leader. For a team to be successful, everyone needs to be committed.

Q. Who has inspired you? CG. Lebron, but mostly my little cousin, Brock, for always being my biggest fan no matter if I score 4 points or 40.