Elevating the Game: Atticus Thompson’s Journey from the Court to the Track

For Atticus Thompson, balancing basketball and track isn’t just a challenge—it’s a lifestyle. The Clinton High School junior has been committed to sports since he was young. “I got started in basketball when I was around six years old, but fully committed to it when I was in fifth grade,” Atticus explained. Now, juggling practices, training, and competition across two sports, he embraces the grind that has defined his athletic career.  

Atticus draws inspiration from NBA superstars like LeBron James, Ja Morant, and Kawhi Leonard, whose moves sparked his passion for basketball. “I wanted to be able to do the moves they could do,” he said, emphasizing how those influences helped shape own playing style. This season, he’s ready to take on another pivotal role. “I don’t know my exact role on the team quite yet, but I think it would be similar to last year—running the 4 or 5 position, helping with interior defense, steals, rebounds, good finishing on offense, as well as a few three-point shots.”  

Team chemistry is a key ingredient to Clinton’s success, and Atticus believes his squad is firing on all cylinders. “The team chemistry this year is great—most of us are friends not only in basketball but in school, which leads to good relationships and chemistry on and off the court.” This connection fuels his personal goals, which include making a deeper playoff run. “Some goals I have for this year would be to win more games and overall set a good foundation for years to come.”  

Though basketball is a passion, Atticus’s proudest athletic achievement came in a different arena: track. “I am most proud that I broke the school long jump record of 23’4 with a jump of 23’9.” His resilience in overcoming setbacks in track has shaped him as an athlete. “The most challenging moment in my sports career was overcoming mental anger after a few bad jumps at nationals. With my last jump, I had to clear my mind and just be an athlete—and I ended up placing 5th.”  

Atticus credits his success to the support of his family and community. “Community support is definitely important… spectators watching the game add pressure that fires me up to play with higher intensity.” Looking ahead, Atticus hopes to pursue an engineering degree and continue his track career in college. His advice for younger athletes? “Confidence is key in anything you do, and what others think of you isn’t a problem.”