Athlete Profile: Braden Uelmen

It’s been a tough season so far for the Oconto Falls High School boys basketball team. The team hadn’t earned a win as of Jan. 10 but has been putting together more competitive showings in recent games. A consistent for the Panthers this season has been the play of senior Braden Uelmen.

Uelmen is averaging over 13 points a game this winter. He’s tallied over 13 points in each of the team’s past five contests.

During a 69-60 loss to Marinette on Jan. 5, Uelmen scored 22 points. He also scored 22 points during a 65-64 loss to Waupaca on Jan. 7.

Uelmen is also averaging over six rebounds and one steal per game. He grabbed a season-high 12 rebounds against Waupaca and was credited with three steals against Marinette.

Q: When did your interest in basketball begin?

A: When we first moved to Oconto Falls, my parents (Robbie and Sheila) and I would play H.O.R.S.E at home in our driveway. Third grade was the first year I was able to play real games, and I have enjoyed every minute of it!

Q: What is your favorite part about the basketball season?

A: Spending time with my friends and having fun on the court.

Q: What has basketball taught you over the years?

A: Basketball has taught me the importance of surrounding yourself with people you trust. It has also helped me become a better team player and have fun while also working hard.

Q: What’s the biggest key to success for you and your team the rest of the season?

A: We have to trust each other and communicate on defense. We also need to trust each other and just have fun.

Q: Do you have any individual goals you hope to achieve or team goals you want to help obtain by the end of this season?

A: I hope we can finish the season strong by playing to our full potential. We just have to finish games and make free throws.

Q: What’s your favorite memory of competing on the Oconto Falls boys basketball team?

A: Seeing all of our hard work pay off at the end of the season when the playoffs start. We play for each other and leave it all on the court.

Q: What are you going to miss most about high school basketball?

A: Playing in packed gyms and not wearing masks. I’ll also miss playing in front of all my friends and family.

Q: Favorite TV show, movie, and musical artist?

A: TV show — “Impractical Jokers.” Movie — “The Ridiculous 6.” Musical artist — Luke Combs.

Q: Name one thing about yourself that not many people know.

A: I am allergic to nuts and ironically my last name is Uelmen, which sounds just like almond.

Q: What’s the greatest piece of advice you have ever been told?

A: You never realize how much you enjoy something until it’s gone; don’t take anything for granted.

Q: What are some things you hope to accomplish after graduating high school?

A: I plan to attend UW-La Crosse with a major in computer science. I will also continue to play sports to keep myself active and healthy.

AT A GLANCE

Athlete: Braden Uelmen

Sport: Boys basketball

Position: Forward

School: Oconto Falls High School

Year: Senior