After earning first-team all-region honors last season, Cowboys point guard Tanna Decker is back and ready to lead Camp Verde.
Last season, Decker played all 31 games and led the Cowboys in assists [5.0] and steals [2.4] while averaging seven points a game.
Decker discussed how she improved and what she expected this season.
Before a basketball game, how do you get yourself motivated?
Before games I kind of hype myself up as well as the rest of the team. Getting the rest of the team motivated motivates me as well, so talking to my teammates helps me prepare. I try to encourage my teammates and we just start yelling and doing a kumbaya chant. If we just encourage each other, it gets all of our energy up. I also listen to hip-hop music beforehand.
In what ways would you say you have improved from last season?
I would say my shooting got a lot better along with my shooting percentage. My mindset is also different, as I am more aggressive this season. I think this season will be a good one.
Who is your favorite athlete?
The athlete I look up to is Kyrie Irving of the Boston Celtics because of his ball-handling ability. I try to focus on what he does and learn from his abilities.
What are your goals for this upcoming season?
My goal this season is definitely to reach the state championship.
Why do you think this team could compete for a title?
I think we will have a great shot because everyone from last year is returning. We all know each other and we work well as a team. We know how each other plays and know our roles very well.
As the point guard, how would you describe your responsibilities?
My role is keeping the energy up and making sure my teammates don’t get down on the court. I would also say calling plays and assisting my teammates are my main responsibilities.
What was your favorite moment from last season?
Oh man, we had so many memories last season that I could not just pick one.
What is your favorite class subject?
My favorite class would probably be English because my teacher is very helpful. I have been getting better in that area.
Which colleges are you looking to continue your basketball career at?
Collegiately, I am looking at the University of California, San Diego, but it would also be great to attend Grand Canyon University.
Which professional team would you like to play for?
I would love to play for the Phoenix Mercury because they are Arizona’s team and it is my home state.
Who on the team do you think will surprise some people this season?
Ah, man, all of my teammates have improved so it is hard to say who will be a surprise this season.
I think Shelly Warfield will surprise some people because she is a freshman and has really improved from the beginning.
Is there a team this season you are really looking forward to playing?
I cannot wait to play Payson. Last season Payson beat us by two points so I want to come back and get a win against them this year. We are definitely looking for revenge against Payson.
Camp Verde opens its season on Tuesday, Nov. 20, when the Cowboys travel to Mayer High School to face the Wildcats.
The Cowboys home opener is Tuesday, Nov. 27, as Payson comes to town to battle Camp Verde.
