Sauk Valley Athlete of the Week: Darius Harrington, Dixon senior basketball player

Name: Darius Harrington

School: Dixon

Sport: Basketball

Why he was selected: Harrington scored a career-high 40 points in a 72-69 win over Rochelle at the Sycamore tournament on Nov. 29. He is averaging 28 points and nine rebounds as the Dukes have started the season 4-1.

The 6-foot-2 Harrington hit 15 field goals, including four 3-pointers, and made six free throws in the 40-point outing. He was not too far from Dixon’s single-game scoring mark of 51 points, set in 1953 by Karl Olson against Lee Center.

Harrington eclipsed 1,000 career points last season and set the single-season scoring record at Dixon. He entered his senior year with 1,033 points after 599 last season.

Harrington started playing basketball at the age of 5 and averaged 20 points, 7.1 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.2 steals per game as a first-team All-Big Northern Conference pick last season.

Harrington is the Sauk Valley Athlete of the Week in an online vote.

What do you like about basketball? Has it taught you anything? Any specific strengths you feel you have? Anything you have improved at this year?

Harrington: I love the competing aspect, it has taught me about teamwork and you can’t do everything yourself. My strengths are I put a lot of work into this game, my defense.

You had a career-high 40 points at the Sycamore tournament to help beat Rochelle. What was working that game? Anything stand out? What can you say about the start to your senior season?

Harrington: Honestly, the thing that was working was my confidence, and my shots were all shots I work on. I shot a lot of 3s and hit a lot, as well. It’s going to be a fun year for me and the team. I think we can do some damage.

What is it like playing for this team this season so far? Any strengths stand out as a team so far?

Harrington: It’s great playing for this team. Everyone hustles on the team, and they want to put in the work, and everyone is on the same page.

Any goals for you this season individually?

Harrington: I want to get the scoring record.

What do you guys hope to accomplish as a team this year?

Harrington: Win regionals.

Do you have a favorite athlete or sports team?

Harrington: I really like the Milwaukee Bucks and Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Any other hobbies, activities or sports you are involved in?

Harrington: I like to lift, fish and play pickleball during the summer.

Do you have a favorite book?

Harrington: The Bible.

Favorite meal after a game?

Harrington: Tacos.

Favorite music genre?

Harrington: Rap, country.

Any favorite school teachers?

Harrington: Mr. Eastman (Business) and Mr. Deets (Forensics Science).