.44 - Double Page Spread Feature Story Draft

 

In the world of athletes having balance in your life will not only allow best physical performance but mentally as well.  I had the pleasure to speak with one of Hialeah’s future basketball star Jovani Noel. Balance, equilibrium, and yin and yang was brought up multiple times when speaking to Noel. In the words of Jovani “It’s all about balance for me, that’s when I perform my best.” When Jovani brought this up, it showed his maturity as a student-athlete. Jovani being able to be a part of an honors society and still perform with the best on the court is a spectacle. For a young athlete to be able to have basketball and his studies on the top of his priority list is rare. Going back to what brought Jovani to develop a deep love for the game of basketball; it has to be the multiple role models that Noel has had in his life. “From my family to NBA Stars I have had many people to learn from.” Noel’s appreciation for those who have helped and inspired him through his career. He specified how learning to believe and have confidence in himself was essential to him improving as a basketball player. After having a rough day or feeling like he has hit a wall with his game, Noel goes to watch documentaries and interviews with his favorite players such as Kobe Bryant and Ja Morant. It helps him hearing words of wisdom and encouragement from these players.  Speaking of Ja Morant, this is Jovani Noel favorite basketball athlete. Not only does Noel enjoy watching Ja Morant’s high-flying dunks, but this is also who Jovani tries to model his game after. “Pushing the pace and getting to the rim is my style.” Jovani Noel works on his touch around the rim to utilize his speed and ability to drive to the basket. Nowadays, seeing a guard that believes shooting deep three pointers from the logo is second to a hard-fought drive to the basket and who’s game doesn’t contradict this belief is few and far between. As the rising sophomore continues to shape his legacy and reach new goals it seems there is no-one quite like Jovani Noel.