Spartan Spotlight: Deonte Holder

Name: Deonte Holder

High School: Mekeel Christian Academy

Year: First year

Major: Criminal Justice

Career Goal: Playing Basketball Overseas

What factored into your decision to attend Cayuga?

I went to a prep school in South Carolina last year. We had a lot of good players, and it was hard to produce and get enough time on the court and prove what I could do. In the summer, I wasn't sure where I was going to go. One of my dad's friends contacted Coach Borges, and he had recruited me from before. We talked some, and he talked to my dad, and I visited campus. We walked around the school, the gym, and I thought it went well and decided this was where I wanted to go.

What's your favorite part about being a student-athlete at Cayuga?

I would say how close I am to my teammates, and also that it's a smaller college. Professors in the school are really helpful and want you to exceed and do well.

What's been your biggest adjustment to college basketball?

The mental part of the game. I have to stay focused, and not get down on myself. In prep school, I didn't get as much playing time. It took a lot to stay focused and keep positive. I think I've gotten better so far this semester.

You've had a couple of huge games this season: 49 points against Genesee, 34 points against Corning. What's going through your mind on those nights where you just can't miss a shot?

Nothing really goes through my mind on the nights when I'm shooting well. If I'm feeling good, I just keep taking shots, but I try to make sure they're the right shots. If I'm open I'll take it, but I don't want to just shoot any shot. I want to make the right basketball play. That might mean taking an open shot, or passing.

As someone in their first season and first full year at Cayuga, what message would you tell high school student-athletes who are interested in attending Cayuga?

I would tell them you're going to be pushed. You need to work, and you have to keep up with your grades. You have to stay focused. Be ready to play. Coach will push you and work you, and try to bring the best out of you.