The Brahmas have the ball and hope to drive the ball to the basket and score. As the players on the court battle near the hoop, one swipes the ball away. Ultimately, this ball-handler maneuvers his way to the other side and makes the layup, adding two points to the score. 

As a part of the Diamond Bar High School basketball team, senior point guard and shooting guard Ethan Alfonso pulls off these kinds of plays regularly. Putting up 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 steals in a win against Wilson on his birthday, Alfonso stands out among the team. 

Having played basketball since the third grade, he was introduced to the game by his father, who hooped himself during his younger years and taught him the basics. He has loved the game ever since. 

“I love the feeling of playing in front of a big crowd; especially when I’m in a rhythm, the game just comes to me,” Alfonso said. “I also enjoy seeing my hard work from training and practice reflected throughout my performances in games”

Alfonso has several achievements already under his belt, including the title of Hacienda League Second Team and the Hacienda League Title in his junior year. Now in his final year on the team, he hopes to win the league title and make a deep run in CIF. 

“I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished over my many years of playing basketball, but I’ve been the most proud of this year,” Alfonso said. “It’s always been my dream to play at a varsity level, and even better, to play a key role on the team.”

Alfonso very much enjoys the game of basketball, but he has also learned several lessons from the game as well. Playing at the varsity level since his sophomore year, Alfonso had to put in countless hours of training to get to where he is today. 

 “Basketball has taught me how to work well with others,” Alfonso said. “From playing on many different teams in middle school, basketball has helped me overcome being shy around others.”

As the 2023-2024 season and school year come to a close, Alfonso prepares for the next chapter in his life. After high school, he plans to major in physics with hopes of eventually becoming a medical physicist. 

“I’d like to give a shout-out to the Diamond Bar coaching staff for helping me get to where I am today as an athlete,” Alfonso said.