McKenzie Makes Seamless Transition From Football to the Basketball Gym

La Grange basketball player Devonte McKenzie is getting his season started strong after also starting for the football team as a defensive end. He brings his size and athleticism to the hardwood as well.

McKenzie is a starter for the team and has been soaking in tons of minutes while producing in a lot of aspects on both offense and defense.

“We really like Devonte,” said first-year La Grange head basketball coach Trent Collier. “We think that he does a lot of things really well. Defensively, he kind of knows where to be and what we’re looking for. We do a green light shooting drill and he has earned his green light. He’s a good shooter, so we trust him with the ball on the perimeter. We think that he’s a tough kid, we think that he’s a great kid, and we think that he brings a lot to the table defensively and we think that offensively, that toughness is gonna eventually shine through there as well. Devonte’s a big, big part of what we’re trying to do. Really glad we have him.”

McKenzie’s body of work in all facets of the game has made him our choice for this edition’s Athlete of the Week.

Question: What’s your favorite way to score in basketball?

Answer: “Drive. Drive in the lane, layup, get a foul, and one, make the free throw.”

Question: Who’s a NBA player you look up to and why?

Answer: “(Russell) Westbrook. He plays with so much passion and aggression.”

Question: What are your goals for basketball this season?

Answer: “To be the best role player and do whatever for my team. Whatever they need and to make a deep run in the playoffs.”

Question: What’s one thing you’re thankful for as we’re in Thanksgiving season? Answer: “Family”

Question: If you had to sing one Christmas song, what would it be?

Answer: “Jingle Bells”

Question: Where’s a place you like to go to celebrate Christmas or Thanksgiving?

Answer: “Home”

Question: How many free throws have you made in a row? If you’re not sure, how many do you think you could make in a row?

Answer: “I know I’ve made 13 in a row. I think I could go 20.”

Question: What’s a Thanksgiving dessert you like?

Answer: “Oreo cake”

Question: Who’s a college basketball team you root for?

Answer: “I like Maryland and Michigan State.”

Question: How would you describe the culture of La Grange basketball?

Answer: “It’s a family and great team to play on.” McKenzie’s ability to contribute on offense and defense makes La Grange hoops a team to watch for best in Fayette County.