Michael Smith is a junior on the Dowagiac basketball team

What has been one of your greatest accomplishments as an athlete?

MS: Winning an AAU tournament.

What has been one of your biggest disappointments as an athlete?

MS: Having a losing record in middle school.

Who is a “hero” in your life and why?

MS: My mom. She sacrifices everything for my brother and I.

When are you the most nervous while you are competing?

MS: Beginning of the game, then I start to calm down.

Describe an embarrassing athletic moment.

MS: Air balling a free throw.

How do you tend to workout/train when by yourself?

MS: By doing the fundamentals.

What other sport would you like to compete in if you were not playing yours?

MS: Football.

Why are sports an important part of a high school experience?

MS: Because, it gets you ready for the real world.

How would you give away $50,000?

MS: Give it away to charity.

If you could be the head coach of a team for a year, what team would you choose?

MS: The Dowagiac Chieftains.

If I did not play sports, I would…?

MS: Study law enforcement.

What is the most challenging thing for you to do in your sport?

MS: Managing time.

If you could change one rule about your sport, what would it be?

MS: Hand-checking.

What is the best compliment you have ever received?

MS: “You are going to be a good college player one day.”

What was the scariest thing you have had to do? Are you glad you did it?

MS: Taking a game-winning shot. Yes.

What was the last thing you saw someone do that really impressed you?

MS: Cailyn (Murphy) dunking on someone.

What is your favorite hobby? Why?

MS: Playing video games. It helps me relieve stress.

Choose one word to describe yourself:

MS: Hardworking.