Junior sharpshooter leading the West Central offensive attack
By Ryne Turke
Photo Credit: Katy Bettis
A new era of Cougar basketball is upon us, and Nick Hamilton is quickly emerging as the face of the program.
Seeing limited minutes on last year’s 1A IHSA State Championship team, Hamilton has jumped out into the starting lineup and become the West Central Cougars top scorer, averaging close to 15 points per game.
Hamilton says he took a ton away from West Central’s postseason run and the seniors that led the way.
“We learned what it takes to win. You’ve got to put in the work. I’m confident in what this year’s team can do. We aren’t worried about comparing to last season. We just go out and play as hard as we can.”
Hamilton expressed this season has been a wild ride.
“My favorite moments are the big games that no one but our fans thought we would win, like beating Pleasant Plains and Calhoun. Playing at home is always special, our fans are incredible. It’s been fun to be on the court, playing a role in the Cougar’s success. Each game brings a new learning moment for me since I’m the least experienced out of our starters.”
With plenty of mentors on the sidelines, like coaches Gabe Cox, Cole Howard and Brady Slagle, plus shooting lessons from Andy Kaufmann, Hamilton has gained the confidence to thrive on the floor.
Ryan Sichting says Hamilton has been one of the most improved players during his time coaching the Cougars.
“Nick was in the gym or weight room all offseason. He’s put in the work to get stronger and become a better basketball player. He deserved his moment hitting the game winning shot against Payson-Seymour at the Winchester Invitational.”
West Central’s hopes of a conference title are still alive, featuring matchups against Triopia, Brown County and Routt over the next few weeks.
“Playing in the WIVC means there is always a challenge. Especially this year, because there isn’t really a super dominant team like us last year. All of our conference games are going to be tough, we just have to keep winning and control our destiny as coach Sichting would say. We will keep playing West Central basketball and see where it takes us.”
