Becoming a member of the 1,000-point club is a major accomplishment for any high school basketball player. But for Eli Eaves, a four-year game changer at Atoka High School, being successful isn’t necessarily about how many points he scores.
“It’s all about getting the win and that includes making everyone around me better,” Eaves said. “Play hard every time you cross the lines, leave it all on the floor and have no regrets. Dad [Ryan] always tells me even if you’re not scoring you can always play defense and always rebound.”
Eaves’ basketball career began in the third grade. He has welcomed the challenge to improve his style of play over the past decade.
“I’ve played every summer on my dad’s team with kids from around southeast Oklahoma since I was in the sixth grade. Last summer, I played AAU with the Tulsa Hawks,” Eaves said. “It not only helped me become a better player, but it also enriched my self confidence that I can play with anyone at the next level.”
The 2023 senior approaches everyday life in the same way he plays basketball by being honest, hardworking and genuine.
“I believe that being genuine encompasses all of that. For me, there’s just black and white, no gray area; just do the right thing the first time all the time,” Eaves said with conviction. “I’m a pretty quiet, reserved person who tries to help everyone around me find a way to be successful. You know, lead by example, show them how to do it and always lend a helping hand.”
Talking to those who know him best, the comments confirm that what you see is what you get. Eli enjoys spending time outdoors hunting and when it comes to food, there’s a definite selection Eli will order from the restaurant menu or when eating at home.
“I’m a big breakfast guy,” Eaves said, “morning, noon and night. Just give me biscuits and gravy, sausage and a plate full of eggs.”
While basketball is utmost in his thoughts, there’s more than roundball that matters to Eli. His classroom efforts have resulted in a 4.0 GPA ranking him No. 1 in his graduating class. With commencement day on the horizon, he wants to continue playing basketball on the college level while pursuing a degree in business administration. Whatever happens today or tomorrow, Eli Eaves has a game plan for the future.
“Abraham Lincoln said that whatever you are, be a good one. For me that’s my approach – by doing things the right way the first time and showing others the importance of having God in their life. Give it your all, be the best you can be every day.”
