Sports

TRINITY LEAGUE ATHLETE PROFILE: SEBASTIAN MUCH

JSerra basketball standout

By Jenelyn Russo     1/30/2017

Older brothers are some of the best teachers when it comes to basketball basics, and that was the case for Sebastian Much.

“I’ve been playing basketball since I was about three years old. It [was] introduced to me by my brother,” Much. “I kind of learned from a young age; he taught me a lot.”

 

 

The JSerra Catholic High School senior has been showcasing his hoop skills as a forward for the Lions, a play-making role the four-year varsity player enjoys. He also serves as a captain on the team, and with a new coaching staff and several new players joining the fold this season, the 18-year old is making the most of the leadership opportunity.

“I’m not the most vocal person, but I do like to give them an example throughout drills and playing style, kind of guide them and show them how it should be done…giving them positive reinforcement,” says Much.

JSerra head boys basketball coach, Zach Brogdon, refers to Much as the key that “makes our team go.”

“Sebastian is a humble and selfless leader and has a great connection with his teammates,” says Brogdon. “His teammates look to him to set the tone for our team, and he makes all of his teammates better. He has tremendous talent and versatility, and we rely on him to score, create shots for others and be an anchor on defense. He contributes in so many ways that aren’t seen in the box score. We are very blessed to have him.”

Much has battled a series of injuries over his basketball career, experiences that have been both frustrating and empowering. During the periods of time when he has been sidelined, Much has used those moments to focus on growth.

“Throughout that process (of dealing with injuries), I think it’s made me into a better person and a better player,” says Much, “because I kind of had to evolve and learn how to cope with different things.”

Off the court, the Laguna Niguel resident serves JSerra by representing the basketball team at several campus events. Much also has a heart for the homeless, helping those in need in his community.

The next step of his career will take him to Princeton University, where Much will play Division I basketball in the Ivy League for the Tigers. As he makes the move east, Much will rely on his faith, an aspect he feels keeps him “on track” and is “something that continues to prevail” throughout his life.

From his brother who first introduced him to the sport, to his parents, his coaches and his friends who have taught and guided him along the way, Much is grateful for the support around him.

“It’s all basically just one giant family to me,” says Much. “Everybody in our community is helping me, in a sense, in a positive way.”