Athlete Profile: Norman Kakwitch

Menominee Indian senior leads team’s fast-paced attack

KESHENA — The Menominee Indian High School boys basketball team entered the season with some big goals behind an experienced senior core. Norman Kakwitch is one of those seniors hoping to guide the team to a big year.

Kakwitch, a gifted scorer from 3-point land, mid-range and around the basket, will likely serve as the team’s top scorer during most games this season. In the team’s season-opening win over Gresham, Kakwitch scored a team-high 16 points.

“Norman brings tremendous leadership to our team,” said Menominee Indian coach James Oshkeshequoam. “His leadership has uplifted his teammates in every aspect. His presence and leadership has exceeded expectations coming into his senior campaign.”

A season ago, the Menominee Indian scoring machine landed on the Central Wisconsin Conference-East Division first team after averaging 16.2 points per contest.

Q: When did your interest in basketball begin?

A: In middle school. Basketball helped me escape reality.

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

A: One last year with my brothers. I plan to make the most of it.

Q: How did you prepare for the season?

A: I worked out every day. Conditioning at 4 a.m. Shooting from 8-10 a.m. Strength training and more conditioning from noon to 1 p.m.. Ball handling and more shooting from 3-5 p.m., and my last work out would be from 7-9 p.m.

Q: Your team has high aspirations this season. As a senior, how are you going to lead your team this winter?

A: Doing what I need to do in order to set my team up to be in the best position to win.

Q: As the season moves on, what kinds of things does the team need to continue working on?

A: Being able to communicate on both ends of the floor.

Q: What has been your favorite memory from your time on the Menominee Indian boys basketball team?

A: Going out to ices (Anthony Corn’s house) every weekend or team bonding.

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

A: The bus rides to away games.

Q: Favorite movies and musical artists?

A: My favorite movie is “The Grey” or “Stomp the Yard.” My favorite artist is J Cole or Lil Wayne.

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

A: I am a pretty open person so nothing at all.

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

A: “Make a difference.”

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

A: Play basketball at the next level and to be the first one in my family with a college degree.

AT A GLANCE

Athlete: Norman Kakwitch

Sport: Boys Basketball

Position: Guard

School: Menominee Indian High School

Year: Senior