He’s young, he gets good grades at school
and he has lots of friends and a good relationship
with his parents. He also plays basketball for Huntington High School, Virginia,
USA. Life is good for OJ Mayo. But it isn’t always easy!
“I really want to be a professional basketball player and I know I have to
work hard,” he says. He wakes up at 6:30 am every day. He starts the day
with a big breakfast, then he goes jogging in the park for an hour. After
that, it’s time for school. When he finishes, he usually goes to basketball
practice. The HHS team practises four days a week. They often play two
games a week. OJ is always sad when they lose. “Well, I know it's only a
game,” he says, “but losing always makes me think we could do better.”
So, with such a full programme, how does he manage? “Well, I never miss practice. I sometimes
worry about school because I want to get good grades, but I’m well organised so I never fall
behind with my homework. I never stay out late. I always do my best and work hard, both at
school and on the court.”
Any advice for ambitious teenagers like himself? “Always stay motivated and never give up!”
OJ says