TJ Junior demonstrates excellence on and off the court.
TJ Junior Ray Riley rips up the court. photo by Kevin Fleming
For any Spartan who’s been to a boys’ basketball game recently, the name Ray Riley might sound familiar. Yet his ability to slam it with authority and dictate his terms to the opposing defense isn’t the only thing Ray should be noted for. It’s his leadership off the court as well that highlights his noteworthy career here at Thomas Jefferson High School.
Ray, the 5’10” junior, is easily one of the most talented young basketball players in the state. His knack for the game and ability to lead the team has placed the Spartans ahead of some of the more elite teams in the league. Coming into the season ranked second in 4A, the Spartans have not failed to impress the critics. Behind the leadership of the “Big Three” (Riley, Billy Sprague, Chris Carter) the boys have continued their winning ways, smashing in the home opener against Bear Creek. Ray, who had a breakout game with 24 points and a handful of crowd-pleasing dunks, impressed Coach Grant Laman. “I’ve coached a lot of players and been around a lot of basketball, but five dunks in one half is something I’ve never seen before,” said Laman.
While growing up in Denver, the Bronx native began playing basketball at the age of four. Attending Smiley Middle School in Northeast Denver, Ray began developing his game at the MLK Recreation Center as well as at the Skyland Recreation Center. His love for the game began at a young age and has clearly translated into his success on the court today. Motivating factors for Ray include, “Throwing an assist off a sweet pass,” he replied humbly. “Of course crossing over and dunking it does feel pretty good too,” he joked. Surely, there will be no shortage of fans eagerly waiting to see such plays by Ray any time soon.
Even as a sophomore, Ray added incredible assurance to the successful future of this team. One year later, he has continued to illustrate what it means to be a leader on the court. As for this year, Ray and the Spartans have high expectations. “As long as we stick to what we’ve been doing, and keep pushing ourselves to do better, I think this team could go far,” he said.
In his second year on the TJ hoop squad, Ray has made quite an impression on not just his teammates but his coaching staff as well. Coach Laman said, “Ray’s a ‘lead by example’ kind of guy. His play energizes the squad by all the success he has had on the court.”
It’s a mutual respect between player and coach, as Ray commented, “Coach [Laman] is great. He really pushes me in practice and it has certainly shown, especially in my free throws.” Ray hopes to continue his accomplishments and lead the Spartans to their third state title in four years.
While Ray is most well known for his rim shattering dunks and ankle breaking cross over, his humble and generous attitude off the court is truly amazing. He is a hardworking junior who understands the importance of his education. Eligibility is clearly never a problem for Ray as his dedication in the classroom opens the door for many years of success on the court. It’s clear he takes no part of his ability for granted, as his play demonstrates that of a point guard rather than a forward. Whether he’s dishing passes or dishing advice, his presence both on the court and in the classroom has allowed for TJ to see Ray’s true colors. “Ray’s really been a great student this year. He’s taken over the duties of the entire studio and executed them like a pro,” said TJ Computer Magnet Teacher Matt Spampinato.
So should we expect to see Ray slamming it on the guys of a Division-1 college? “I hope so. After high school I would love to play college basketball. Maybe for Memphis,” he said. The idea isn’t far fetched. With his junior year going swimmingly and his senior year yet to come, don’t be surprised when you see Ray on the starting roster for the Tigers in 2011. And after college ball? “From there hopefully the pro’s, or maybe overseas,” he said. Whether he’s playing for the NBA or the ULEB (Union of European Leagues of Basketball), we can guarantee he will be a fine addition wherever he goes.
Outside of school, Ray discussed an important factor in his life; one that has shaped his basketball career into what it is today, all answered in just two words, “My grandpa.” He went on to explain the importance of his grandfather in his life. “I enjoy spending time with my grandpa outside of school,” Ray stated. He’s a major component in Ray’s life and drives him to do well both on and off the court. Whether he’s giving him tips on his shot, form, overall game play or is just cheering him on, his help has certainly been working as Ray hopes to continue his success and adorn a state title ring for the first time in his career.
Being a leader is nothing new for Ray. As a team captain his sophomore year, he has more than willingly stepped up to the challenge of accepting a leadership role for the Spartans. “I feel like M.J. out there,” he said. Surely.
Ray and the rest of the TJ hoop squad are ready to lead as TJ looks to leave their mark on the postseason. You can see Ray Riley and the rest of his mates take on the Lancers of Lincoln tonight at 7:00 p.m. right here on the Spartan home boards.
