Steven Bender is a hardworking, talented student-athlete at Morris High School. Steven’s journey in basketball began at the tender age of six when he joined an AAU team, and from that moment, the love for the game only grew. “I started playing for my school when I was in 4th grade and have kept playing since then,” he recalled, reflecting on the years of dedication that have brought him to where he is today. “My inspiration for basketball was just always being around it – my dad coached, and my two older brothers played, so I was always around it.”

Balancing academics and basketball have been a crucial aspect of Steven’s high school life. “The way I balance academics and basketball is just by getting my work done in class and taking the free time I have to get my assignments done so that I don’t have to worry about anything while I have games or practices,” he explained. Steven’s disciplined approach to time management has allowed him to excel both on the court and in the classroom.

For Steven, making it onto the varsity team stands out as his most significant achievement in his high school sports career. “My biggest achievement in my high school sports career was just making it on varsity,” he shared, emphasizing the pride and hard work that went into reaching that milestone.

When asked about the influence of his coaches on his development as an athlete, Steven highlights their role in preparing him for the next level. “The role my coaches have on my development as an athlete is just getting me ready for college and the development of my game,” he stated, acknowledging the invaluable guidance and mentorship he has received.

As he continues to pursue his passion for basketball, Steven remains dedicated to both his athletic and academic pursuits. With a strong foundation and unwavering determination, he is poised to make a lasting impact on and off the court, carrying with him the lessons learned from years of hard work and dedication.