Suburban Life Athlete of the Week: Luca Carbonaro, Wheaton Warrenville South, basketball, senior

Name: Luca Carbonaro

School: Wheaton Warrenville South, senior

Sport: Basketball

Why he was selected: Carbonaro scored 26 points in a win over Batavia and had 17 points and eight rebounds in a win over Palatine.

He was voted the Athlete of the Week in an online vote. Here is his Q&A with Sports Editor Joshua Welge.

You guys have been on a really good run the last month. What’s been the key?

Carbonaro: We’ve really been playing disciplined defense and been playing our tails off. If you play the Wheaton South basketball way, you’re going to be successful, so we’ve been doing just that.

Anything in particular that’s turned around since the first five games?

Carbonaro: We’ve been doing what we’re coached to do and that’s ultimately been it. We trust that each one of us is going to do our jobs and then going out there and executing game plans.

It seems like you’ve been on a nice roll yourself. How has your game developed?

Carbonaro: First and foremost, I have to thank my teammates and coaches for putting their utmost trust in me on the offensive end. They have the confidence in me that allows me to play free, get to my spots and allow me to take some tough shots at times. But really all my success came from the hours in the gym and all the extra time I spent outside of practice. I feel like every shot I take, I have practiced it before and have the confidence it’s going in.

What are some goals for the rest of the year?

Carbonaro: I think one of our main goals right now would be winning a conference championship. We feel like if we play like we’re supposed to then we have a legitimate shot at winning our conference. Another goal would be making a nice run in the playoffs, winning a few games and making some noise. But we know the importance of taking it one game at a time and enjoying the present.

What’s your plans beyond high school, athletically and academically?

Carbonaro: I’m very fortunate to have options at the next level for both football and basketball. I definitely am going to continue to play sports, but which one or maybe even which ones I’m not sure at this point. I am waiting until I feel like the best opportunity presents itself. I know that God has a perfect plan for me so I’m just going to continue to trust that all will work out on His timing.

Do you have a favorite sports team or athlete?

Carbonaro: I’d say my favorite athlete has stayed the same for a while, Steph Curry. The way he portrays his faith and plays the game for God is super inspiring and something I definitely look up to. Then obviously how good of a basketball player he is and the way he changed the game has definitely also impacted me and how I play my own game.

Do you have a favorite musician?

Carbonaro: Being a big country music guy, my favorite musician is definitely Morgan Wallen. Conner Smith and Floria Georgia Line are both also on the aux a ton, too.

Do you have a favorite class in school?

Carbonaro: I taking a bowling class now so that definitely takes the cake.