D.J. Lanier is a sophomore on the Dowagiac basketball team.

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

DL: Starting as a freshman on the varsity basketball team and being all-conference.

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

DL: Losing to Benton Harbor.

Who is a “hero” in your life and why?

DL: My brother.

When are you the most nervous while you are competing?

DL: I am nervous before big games, but once the game starts I am ready to go.

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

DL: I work on my shot or dribbling.

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

DL: Football.

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

DL: They motivate me to do well in school and gives me the opportunity to compete.

How would you give away $50,000?

DL: To less fortunate families.

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

DL: The Golden State Warriors.

If I did not play sports, I would…?

DL: Play music.

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

DL: Defend bigger guys.

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

DL: The traveling rule.

What is the best compliment you have ever received?

DL: That I played a solid game.

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

DL: Catch a squirrel in my living room. No.

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

DL: Caleb Murphy caught an impressive alley-oop pass from me.

What is your favorite hobby? Why?

DL: Basketball. It clears my mind.

Choose one word to describe yourself:

DL: Unpredictable.