By Bryce McKinnis
Mike Tarver’s No. 1 passion is basketball.
The Claremore High School senior joined the team his freshman year. Self-described as a “nice, friendly and fun guy,” he always had a passion for the sport, but his decision to play competitively came much later.
“I can’t really remember when I first started playing,” said Tarver, a 5-foot-11 wing for the seniors. “My biggest challenge was when I first started playing competitively, to be at the same level as everyone else if not better. My dad was there for me since day one.”
Basketball is like a game of chess; Every successful move has a quantifiable risk and a measured outcome. For Tarver, that’s what makes the game so great.
“The game has taught me to be disciplined and give 100 percent effort into what I do,” Tarver said.
He’s made tremendous strides in his game in the three years that have passed. By his sophomore year, he was one of the best players on the team.
“My greatest success is being able to be a starter in my second year of playing basketball,” Tarver said. “My junior year was very fun. I enjoyed the squad, and we had a bunch of fun.”
In anticipation of his senior year, Tarver has one paramount goal.
“I want to leave a legacy that will have me as one of the best shooters in CHS history,” Tarver said.
His team expectations for this season are just as great.
“My expectations for this season is to make it far into the playoffs and be one of the best defending teams in our class. It will take dedication, defense and discipline along with effort,” Tarver said. “The most I have improved on was my shooting and my aggression attacking the rim. Leadership has been very crucial for me, and it’s a next step in my career to be a great leader for my teammates to help us be successful.”
After high school, Tarver plans to continue his basketball career at the next level and for the game to take him as far as possible.
