memories on the court

By: Jaslene Alvarado

Renzo Gonzalez is a 17 year old at Yerba Buena High School who spends his free time at the basketball court shooting hoops. Basketball has been a way for him to bond with his father and friends.

 Gonzalez’s passion for basketball started in the Philippines where he used to play in a league and when he learned from his late father when he was 7 years old. He grew really close with his teammates back in the Philippines.

 “ They weren’t just my teammates, they were also my close friends,” said Gonzalez. They faced many challenges such as tough games or intense practices, but always pulled through as a team with each other's support. 

Gonzalez's dad was the one who handed him his first basketball. Him and his father would play basketball at a court near their home. He still remembers the feeling he got playing for the first time and learning from his dad. 

“ I still remember feeling so excited but also a little nervous because it was my very first time. My dad held the ball, showed me how to dribble, and guided me as I tried to shoot,” he said.

Gonzalez still thinks about the proud smile on his dad’s face every time he shoots. enjoyed the game but mainly enjoyed spending time and making the happiest memories of his childhood with his dad.

“Now, thinking about it makes me both grateful and sad, because he is gone, and I miss the moments we shared so much.” said Gonzalez.

He grew up watching a lot of different sports like soccer or football but he enjoys basketball the most. He looks up to many different people like Stephen Curry, Lebron James, and Jason Tatum. 

He looks forward to trying out his school's basketball team and hopes to make varsity. Playing basketball has helped Gonzalez make friends not only on the court but also in classes such as science where he has many friends.