Pedigree: This week’s Pioneer Focus goes to senior center Daniel Wise who posted a career high 23 points to help lead the Pioneers to a 73-65 quarterfinal win over Lake Superior State this past Wednesday. Wise was very efficient with his 23-point effort shooting 8-for-10 from the field, while also converting seven of nine at the free-throw line. Along with scoring, he hustled and led the squad in rebounds for the night.
Get to know the tough player from Dennison, Ohio …
Nickname: Since Dan is the old guy on squad, some teammates call him Uncle.
Major: Integrated Social Studies
High school: Claymont
Q: How did you spend your spring break?
A: Practice and hanging with the team for the tournament.
Q: Favorite aspect of basketball?
A: Relationships I get to make with my teammates and the funny things I get to see behind the scenes.
Q: What is a hidden talent of yours?
A: I like to say I’m pretty good at volleyball and ping pong.
Q: Spring or fall?
A: Fall
Q: When did you decide that you wanted to play basketball at the collegiate level?
A: In high school I realized I was good and I started varsity my sophomore year. During my senior year, I realized I wanted to go to college. Basketball was a way to earn a scholarship.
Q: What teammates inspire you?
A: It’s not really individuals that inspire me; it’s more like the entire team itself.
Q: Dream car?
A: 69’ Charger or a 74’ Mustang. A Dodge Viper would be nice also.
Q: The best advice you could give to a freshman?
A: Don’t date!
Q: Celebrity crush?
A: Jessica Biel
Q: Favorite memory with your team?
A: When we went to Dallas for basketball. We played SMU and Missouri State. It was just a memorable trip.
Q: If you could switch lives with one person in the world, who would it be and why?
A: I guess Cory Veldhuizen. I roomed with Cory last year so I kind of know how his life is a little bit. He has a very interesting life.
Q: One word that best describes you?
A: Besides tall, I would say intentional.
Q: Twitter or Facebook?
A: Facebook because I don’t have a Twitter.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
A: A high school history teacher. I’m not sure where. I don’t plan on living anywhere specific; and hopefully married with kids.
Tim Woods is a sports writer for The Aviso AVW.
