Waipahu-based Player Helps Keep Hawaii-Select Undefeated
Maegen Martin. Photo courtesy of Annette Leonardo.
The relaxed air that often prevails in high school summer basketball games is nowhere to be found when the Hawaii-Select traveling All-Star team is on the floor. Coached by Maryknoll and former Kalaheo head coach Chico Furtado, Hawaii-Select remains the top summer outfit on the island when it comes to basketball.
Maryknoll junior-to-be Maegen Martin likes the competitive edge she gets from playing for Hawaii-Select. Three years ago, she was only entering her freshman year when she was chosen to play for the team. “It was exciting, but I was the youngest player on the team and I had to play above my potential,” she said. “I liked it. It pushed me to do better, and the girls were nice to me. They always encouraged me to do better.”
The team currently is undefeated and in first place in Kalaheo’s Summer League, and it’s preparing for the July 24-28 Big Foot Hoops Las Vegas Classic.
A Waipahu resident, Martin recently took some time away from the practice floor to visit with MidWeek‘s West Oahu Islander.
When did you know basketball was THE sport for you? I started playing basketball when I was 4 or 5. My parents played basketball – my mom played at Campbell, and my dad played at Waipahu. I tried out, loved playing it, and I have never stopped.
Who has had the biggest impact on your life? My parents. They do a lot for me, and I really do appreciate all they do. They push me to do well. The way to give back to them is to make them proud.
What’s been the best part of playing for the Hawaii-Select All-Star Team? Traveling with the team and meeting new people. I like getting to know players from different areas. We play differently, but when we come together, we have chemistry.
What area of your game are you focusing on this summer? My shooting range – being able to shoot from further away. As a post player, I’m used to shooting from around the basket.
Who plays the toughest defense among your Hawaii-Select teammates in practice? Basketball being a team sport, when one player is playing good defense, it shows everyone else to play good defense.
What website do you go to the most? Facebook and Instagram. I actually go on Instagram more than Facebook.
What film could you watch over and over? Now You See Me. I just watched it.
What item can you not live without? My phone.
Who is your favorite musical artist? Justin Timberlake. My favorite song would be Mirrors.
How do you like to spend your free time? I play basketball every day, and I like to go to the beach and hang out with friends and family.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? I may still be in college – I am looking into the medical field. Hopefully, I’ll be finding a job and will have a family.
You are stuck on Kahoolawe and can have just one food. What would it be? Sushi.
Who would be your celebrity date for the junior/senior prom? (Actor) Channing Tatum.
