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.

Senior center Daniel Wise recently posted a career high of 23 points against Lake Superior State. Wise’s outstanding effort led him and his team to a win in the quarterfinal GLIAC tournament championship. (Photo courtesy of Andy Smith)

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.