Wyoming Rising: The Story of Wyoming High School Basketball

What happens when a high school senior in Wyoming juggles sports, social media, and entrepreneurship? Meet Aaraon Chavez, the mastermind behind the wildly popular Wyoming Varsity Sports Instagram account, which has captivated thousands and become a go-to source for high school sports highlights. In this episode, Aaraon shares his inspiring journey from a rivalry to a thriving online community, revealing the secrets to his rapid growth and unique collaboration with local photographers.You'll discover how Aaraon transformed a simple idea into a platform that not only showcases student-athletes but also builds camaraderie among schools across Wyoming. He shares insights on managing content creation, the importance of collaboration, and how he keeps the passion alive without monetization. Aaraon also opens up about his plans for the future, balancing sports with aspirations in communications, and the lessons he's learned along the way.We dive deep into the mechanics of running a successful social media account, including tips on engagement, reaching out to photographers, and navigating the challenges of maintaining authenticity while growing an audience. Aaraon's story is a testament to what high school students can achieve when they combine passion with perseverance.This episode matters because it highlights the power of youth entrepreneurship and the impact of social media on local sports culture. As Aaraon continues to inspire his peers, he proves that age is just a number when it comes to making a difference in your community.Perfect for aspiring young entrepreneurs, sports enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the intersection of social media and community building, this episode is packed with valuable insights and sparks of inspiration. Tune in and be ready to rethink what’s possible!

Join us for an exciting episode of the Wyoming Rising podcast as we dive into the world of Buffalo High School basketball and football standout athlete Hayden Geis! 🏀In this episode, we discuss Hayden's journey as a dual-sport athlete, his experiences on the football field and basketball court, and the challenges he faces as a student-athlete. From his impressive performances to his aspirations for the future, Hayden shares valuable insights and stories that every sports fan will appreciate.Key takeaways:* Hayden's journey from a struggling sophomore to a standout junior athlete* The importance of mentorship and support from coaches and family* Insights into the competitive landscape of Wyoming high school sports* The impact of injuries on an athlete's career and mindset* Hayden's passion for leathercraft and ranchingTimestamps:00:00 Introduction01:00 Hayden's background and dual-sport journey10:00 The role of mentorship in Hayden's development20:00 Insights into Wyoming high school basketball30:00 Overcoming injuries and challenges40:00 Hayden's future aspirationsWhat's your biggest challenge as a student-athlete? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more inspiring stories from the world of sports!#WyomingRising #HighSchoolBasketball #StudentAthlete

Jaycee has been someone we have wanted to talk to for while. In this episode, he talks about his days playing professionally to his early days in Wyoming and playing for Utah State - and everything in between. Sam Shumway, the host, engages Jaycee in a candid conversation about his incredible basketball journey and career, building confidence, Jaycee's love for the state of Wyoming and basketball memories, and everything in between. He also shares specific insights into balancing family life with the demands of being an athlete.This episode is not just for sports enthusiasts; it's essential listening for anyone trying to be the best version of themselves, dealing with adversity, seeking inspiration, or looking to understand the human side of professional athletes.Join us for a heartfelt conversation that dives deep into the intersection of sports and life, and leave with a renewed sense of resilience and perspective.

Discover the remarkable journey of Cordell Spoonhunter, a standout player in Wyoming Indian basketball, as he shares his experiences growing up on the Wind River Indian Reservation. In this episode, Cordell discusses how basketball became a vital part of his life, the community's passion for the sport, and the journey that led him to Eastern Wyoming College.From his earliest memories of playing in local tournaments at just five years old to leading his high school team to a state championship, Cordell’s story is one of dedication and passion. He reveals the challenges and triumphs faced by young athletes in his community, emphasizing how basketball serves as a pathway to greater opportunities. You'll discover:* The significance of basketball on the reservation and how it unites the community.* Cordell’s insights on growing up with a large family and a rich cultural heritage that includes both Northern Arapaho and Eastern Shoshone roots.* His unique last name, Spoonhunter, and the story behind it, adding a personal touch to his narrative.As Cordell reflects on his path, he highlights the importance of perseverance and the impact of sports on his life and those around him. Not only does he share his aspirations, but he also emphasizes how basketball is a common thread that connects generations in his community.This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in the intersection of culture and sports, as well as those who want to understand the dynamics of life on the Wind River Indian Reservation. Whether you’re a basketball fan or simply seeking inspiration, Cordell’s story is sure to resonate and motivate.Tune in to hear Cordell’s authentic voice and experience the passion that drives him on and off the court!

In the latest episode of the Wyoming Rising podcast, high school basketball star Ari Fowler opens up about her journey on and off the court, revealing the passion and dedication that drives her game. If you're a fan of basketball or just looking for inspiration from young athletes, this episode is a must-listen.

Join host Sam Shumway and returning guest Karlee Shumway as they dive deep into Ari's experiences, from her impressive shooting stats to the challenges of balancing academics and athletics.

Ari shares her insights on navigating high school life while pursuing basketball, addressing everything from basketball to sushi to harmonica playing. The trio also discusses the realities of being part of a less dominant team and how that shapes an athlete's character and determination.

This episode is not just for sports enthusiasts; it's a reminder of the resilience and passion that young people bring to their pursuits. Don’t miss the chance to hear Ari’s inspiring story and the lessons she's learned along the way.

This conversation showcases her dedication and gives listeners a peek into the life of a young athlete striving for excellence.

In this episode of the Wyoming Rising podcast, we dive deep into the journey of Julian "Ju" Stromski, a rising basketball star from Torrington, Wyoming. From initially favoring football to becoming a standout basketball player, Ju shares the pivotal moments that transformed his passion for the game. Listeners will discover how a simple love for sports can evolve into a lifelong commitment as Ju recounts his experiences from childhood to becoming an all-conference, all-state guard for the Torrington Trailblazers.

Ju opens up about his early memories, revealing how watching his father play basketball sparked his initial interest. "I never liked basketball at first; I was all about football," he admits, but the excitement of middle school teams and out-of-town games ignited his passion. You'll discover the significance of mentorship as Ju discusses the impact of his coach, Malik Frederick, who has guided him through training and development, highlighting the importance of having the right support system in sports.

We break down Ju's transition from football to basketball, the challenges he faced, and how hard work and determination allowed him to excel. Ju shares insights on his training regimen, the influence of lifting and conditioning, and how he honed his skills to become a versatile player in the sport. This conversation is a treasure trove of motivation for young athletes and anyone looking to chase their dreams.

The stakes are high in competitive sports, and Ju’s story is a testament to resilience and passion. Ignoring your true calling can lead to missed opportunities, but Ju’s journey reminds us that it’s never too late to transform your path. With a bright future ahead, Ju is not just a talented player; he’s a role model for aspiring athletes everywhere.

Perfect for young athletes, coaches, and sports enthusiasts, this episode is essential listening if you want to understand the dedication required to succeed in any sport. Join us to hear Ju's inspiring story and get ready to be motivated!

Lawson Lovering talks through the full arc of his basketball journey, from growing up in Cheyenne to playing high-level AAU basketball, competing at CU and Utah, and making his NBA debut with Memphis.

In this episode:

Growing up in Cheyenne and starting basketball at age three

How football and soccer helped shape his basketball game

Getting discovered by the Utah Prospects

Playing against future pros in elite AAU tournaments

Cheyenne Central’s championship-level teams

Learning to handle double- and triple-teams

Committing to CU before becoming a top-100 prospect

Recovering from a torn MCL

Transferring from CU to Utah

Winning memorable rivalry games against BYU

Training in Arkansas after college

Earning a spot with Memphis through summer league

The 40-minute free-throw story with Ja Morant watching

Getting called up to the NBA on one hour’s notice

Guarding Nikola Jokić in his NBA debut

Scoring his first NBA points

What makes Jokić so difficult to defend

Recovering from a serious pit bull attack

How his role changed from high school to college to professional basketball

His goals for earning a two-way contract

Timestamps

00:00 - Opening the conversation

02:05 - Introducing Lawson and his Wyoming basketball background

04:11 - Growing up in Cheyenne

06:21 - Lawson’s first basketball memories at age three

07:53 - Playing football, soccer, and becoming more physical

10:36 - How the Utah Prospects found him

12:34 - Weekend travel and elite AAU competition

15:36 - Going from unranked to a top-100 prospect

18:00 - The underdog advantage of coming from Wyoming

19:19 - Cheyenne Central’s championship-level team

20:53 - The junior-year loss and COVID cancellation

23:30 - What it is like being a big man in Wyoming basketball

25:32 - Becoming a better passer against double-teams

26:44 - Why Lawson committed to CU early

28:20 - The torn MCL that ended his freshman season

29:46 - A close CU team and learning from the injury

30:46 - Lawson’s role during his sophomore season

32:32 - Entering the transfer portal

33:03 - Why Utah was the right fit

34:22 - The NIL money Lawson believes he missed out on

36:48 - His favorite memories from Utah

37:56 - When he started believing he could play rofessionally

38:26 - Training two or three times a day in Arkansas

40:37 - The unexpected Memphis pre-draft opportunity

41:52 - Earning a summer league roster spot

43:01 - The 40-minute free-throw session with Ja Morant

45:36 - Training camp, preseason, and joining the Memphis Hustle

47:06 - The stretch that led to his NBA call-up

48:07 - Getting one hour to pack for San Francisco

49:35 - Finding out he would play against Denver

50:02 - Lawson’s first minutes against Nikola Jokić

52:24 - Scoring his first NBA points

53:13 - What makes Jokić so difficult to guard

54:30 - His sister’s wedding after his NBA debut

55:31 - Recording a double-double against Utah

57:14 - Recovering from the pit bull attack

61:44 - How his game changed from high school to the pros

62:45 - Getting stronger, more athletic, and more flexible

67:15 - Why overseas basketball remains an option

68:52 - Lawson’s favorite pregame meal

69:31 - What he would do if he did not play basketball

69:58 - The hardest parts of being seven feet tall

70:27 - Snowstorms, road trips, and Wyoming basketball

71:32 - The best trash talker he has played with

72:04 - The story of his cat, Lucy

73:13 - His best and worst sports memories

74:30 - The mentors who shaped his career

75:10 - Whether he felt ready to play varsity basketball as a freshman

77:23 - Final reflections on his career so far

78:03 - Jokić’s postgame compliment

80:32 - The free-throw story Lawson will never forget

81:33 - Why Lawson believes he belongs in the NBA

This episode is a conversation about persistence, timing, and staying ready when an opportunity arrives unexpectedly.

Join us for an episode of the Wyoming Rising podcast featuring Boston James, a standout athlete from Rock Springs! 🏀🏈 In this episode, we dive into Boston's journey in basketball and football, his experiences growing up in Wyoming, and his aspirations for the future.Key takeaways:* Boston's early memories of playing basketball and football* Insights into the Rock Springs basketball community* The challenges and triumphs of high school sports* His experience playing for the Utah Valley Prime AAU team* Thoughts on the upcoming basketball season and his goalsTimestamps:00:00 Introduction00:30 Boston's background and early sports experiences05:00 The Rock Springs basketball community10:00 Challenges faced in high school sports15:00 Playing for Utah Valley Prime AAU20:00 Upcoming basketball season expectations25:00 Final thoughts and advice for young athletesWhat's your biggest challenge in sports? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more inspiring stories from Wyoming athletes!#WyomingRising #BostonJames #HighSchoolSports

Join us for an great conversation with Lou Roney, a standout athlete and coach from Wyoming! 🏀In this episode of the Wyoming Rising Podcast, Lou shares his journey from growing up in Laramie to becoming a successful coach at Cheyenne Central. Discover his experiences playing at Yale, winning state championships, and the lessons he's learned along the way.Key takeaways:* Lou's early life and athletic journey in Wyoming* Transitioning from player to coach* Insights on coaching philosophy and leadership* The evolution of basketball and its impact on young athletesTimestamps:00:00 Introduction02:00 Growing up in Laramie10:00 Playing at Yale20:00 Coaching at Cheyenne Central30:00 Winning state championships40:00 The evolution of basketball50:00 Advice for young athletesWhat's your biggest challenge with balancing sports and academics? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more inspiring stories from Wyoming's sports community!#WyomingRising #Basketball #Coaching

Join us for our conversation with Lily Anderson, a standout basketball player from Wheatland, Wyoming! 🏀In this episode of the Wyoming Rising podcast, we dive into Lily's journey as she prepares for her senior season, her impressive stats, and her aspirations for college basketball. Discover how she balances academics and athletics while aiming for the all-time Wyoming scoring record!Key takeaways:* Lily's journey from a young athlete to a top scorer* The importance of hard work and dedication in sports* Insights into her training routine and game strategies* The impact of family and mentors on her careerTimestamps:00:00 Introduction02:00 Meet Lily Anderson04:30 Basketball journey and achievements10:00 Training and preparation15:00 Balancing academics and sports20:00 Future aspirations and college recruitment25:00 Final thoughts and advice for young athletesWhat's your biggest challenge with balancing sports and academics? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more inspiring stories from Wyoming athletes!#WyomingRising #BasketballJourney #WheatlandWonder

Join us for an exciting episode of the Wyoming Rising podcast as we dive into the world of Wyoming high school basketball with Logan Atnip! 🏀In this episode, we discuss Logan's journey as a three-sport athlete, his experiences on the court, and what it takes to balance football, basketball, and baseball. We also touch on the intense rivalries in Wyoming high school sports and Logan's aspirations for the future.Key takeaways:* Logan's journey as a three-sport athlete* Insights into the Kelly Walsh vs. Natrona rivalry* Balancing sports and academics* Logan's thoughts on playing at the next levelTimestamps:00:00 Introduction01:00 Logan's background and sports journey05:00 The Kelly Walsh vs. Natrona rivalry10:00 Balancing multiple sports15:00 Future aspirations in basketball20:00 Final thoughts and adviceWhat's your biggest challenge with balancing sports and academics? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more insights into Wyoming high school sports!#WyomingRising #HighSchoolBasketball #AthleteJourney

Join us on this episode of Wyoming Rising as we dive into the journey of Kelby Kramer, a standout from Rock Springs High School who went on to play college basketball at the University of Montana and Minnesota State Mankato. Discover his experiences, challenges, and triumphs in high school and professional basketball, including his time playing overseas in countries like Montenegro and Argentina.Key takeaways:* Kelby's journey from high school basketball to college and professional play.* Insights into the challenges of being a tall athlete in various sports.* The importance of mentorship and support in sports.* The realities of playing basketball overseas and navigating contracts.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:30 Kelby's high school basketball journey05:00 Transition to college basketball10:00 Playing professionally overseas15:00 Challenges faced in different leagues20:00 Advice for aspiring athletesWhat's your biggest challenge in pursuing your sports dreams? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more inspiring stories from Wyoming athletes!#WyomingRising #BasketballJourney #KelbyKramer

Josh Adams was never just a highlight reel. The former Wyoming star opens up about the fire that made him a Mountain West Player of the Year and All American, the culture that powered the 2015 Cowboys, and the brutal moment a neck-breaking car crash nearly ended everything before his pro career even began.

If you love Wyoming basketball, underdog stories, or what it really takes to turn anger into greatness, this conversation hits all of it.

Josh, Sam, and Nate trace his path from a carpet court in Phoenix to state-championship glory at Chaparral, to the moment Larry Shyatt told him he’d get a shot at Wyoming, to the March run that made him a Cowboy legend.

You’ll discover:

• How Josh’s family built a house of athletes, with a dad who held a high-jump record and a mom who shaped his edge and mindset
• Why he says his biggest weapon wasn’t confidence at first, but a relentless need to prove people wrong
• The recruiting story that changed everything, including the dunk at Wyoming team camp that caught the coaching staff’s attention
• What made the 2015 Wyoming team different, from the “aggressive, disciplined, unselfish” identity to the self-policing culture inside the locker room
• The emotional weight of his iconicMWC Tourney run, including the picture of him kissing the court after years of blood, sweat, and tears

Josh also gets real about life after Laramie: 13 NBA workouts, a huge overseas deal, the terrifying crash that fractured two vertebrae in his neck and left him with 46 stitches, and the long comeback that followed. He shares what it was like to play in Russia, Turkey, China, Spain, Italy, Australia, Slovenia, and Greece, including the shady side of international basketball that most fans never see.

This is bigger than basketball. It’s about identity, resilience, leadership, and learning how to channel the part of yourself that refuses to quit.

Essential listening if you want the untold story behind one of the most electric players in Wyoming history and the next chapter he’s building as a coach, mentor, and founder of P.I.V.O.T.

Join us for an exciting episode of the Wyoming Rising Podcast as we dive into the world of Wyoming high school basketball with standout Niobrara County athlete Brady Swisher! 🏀In this episode, Brady shares his journey from Lusk, Wyoming, to becoming a key player in his school's basketball program. Discover the challenges and triumphs of being a multi-sport athlete, his experiences on the court, and the importance of community support in small-town sports.Key takeaways:Brady's unique nicknameThe impact of family and community on his athletic journeyInsights into the dynamics of small school sportsThe importance of leadership and mentorship in athleticsTimestamps:00:00 Introduction00:30 Meet Brady Swisher02:00 The significance of his nickname05:00 Family background in sports10:00 Life in Lusk, Wyoming15:00 Balancing sports and academics20:00 The role of community in high school sports25:00 Brady's future aspirations30:00 Closing thoughtsWhat's your biggest challenge with balancing sports and academics? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for weekly insights into Wyoming high school sports and more!#WyomingRising #HighSchoolBasketball #AthleteJourney

In this episode, host Sam Shumway interviews standout player Jack Andela, a two-time All-State basketball player and future Carroll College athlete. Discover Jack's journey from his early days in Gillette to becoming a state champion and his experiences on the court.Key takeaways:* Jack's basketball journey and early influences* Insights into his high school career and state championship win* The challenges of transitioning to college basketball after an injury* The importance of teamwork and leadership in sportsTimestamps:00:00 Introduction00:30 Jack's background and early basketball experiences05:00 Highlights from his high school career10:00 The state championship journey15:00 Overcoming injury and preparing for college20:00 Final thoughts and advice for young athletesWhat's your biggest challenge with basketball? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for weekly insights into Wyoming sports and more!#WyomingBasketball #HighSchoolSports #CarrollCollege

Join us for an exciting episode of the Wyoming Rising Podcast as we dive into the world of Wyoming High School basketball with Lane Ladkey! 🏀In this episode, we explore Lane's journey as a state champion and all-state guard with the Campbell County Camels. Discover the legacy of the Ladkey family, the impact of legendary coach Bubba Ladkey, and the dynamics of growing up in a competitive basketball environment.Key takeaways:* Lane's experience playing in adult basketball tournaments* Insights into the Ladkey family tree and their basketball legacy* The importance of teamwork and trust in achieving success* Behind-the-scenes stories from the state championship runTimestamps:00:00 Introduction01:24 Welcome Lane Ladkey02:19 The Ladkey family legacy03:03 Adult basketball tournaments06:29 Growing up with competitive brothers10:28 Coaching dynamics with Bubba Ladkey17:44 The state championship journey22:36 Facing Laramie in the finals25:24 The importance of teamworkWhat's your biggest challenge with basketball? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for weekly insights into Wyoming basketball and more!#WyomingBasketball #LadkeyLegacy #HighSchoolSports

Join us on the Wyoming Rising podcast as we talk to Owen Walker, a standout high school basketball player from Lovell, Wyoming. Owen shares his experiences from winning back-to-back state championships to preparing for his upcoming mission in England.Key takeaways:* Owen's journey to becoming a three-time Allstate selection and player of the year.* Insights into life in Lovell, Wyoming, and the tight-knit community.* The importance of family and support in sports.* Owen's plans for college basketball and his mission experience.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction02:08 Welcome to the podcast03:08 Owen's basketball achievements04:18 Preparing for his mission05:14 Life in Lovell, Wyoming06:49 Family background in sports09:01 Early basketball memories10:02 Transitioning to high school sports13:28 Team dynamics and chemistry17:19 Winning state championships21:06 The Sheridan vs. Lovell matchup23:55 Understanding the LDS mission28:25 Future plans after the mission31:16 Best and worst sports memoriesWhat's your biggest challenge with balancing sports and life? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more inspiring stories from the world of sports!#WyomingRising #HighSchoolBasketball #OwenWalker

Join us for an exciting episode of the Wyoming Rising podcast featuring Josiah Coleman, a standout multi-sport athlete from Natrona! 🏀In this episode, we dive into Josiah's journey in basketball, his experiences with the Idaho Premier team, and his aspirations for the upcoming season. Discover how he balances football, track, and basketball while aiming for a state championship.Key takeaways:* Josiah's early sports influences and family background* The impact of travel basketball on his game* Insights into his state championship experience* Future goals and expectations for the next seasonTimestamps:00:00 Introduction00:30 Josiah's background and family02:00 Early basketball experiences04:00 The Idaho Premier team06:00 Improving through travel basketball08:00 Conversations with college coaches10:00 State championship game insights12:00 Expectations for the next seasonWhat's your biggest challenge in balancing sports? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for weekly sports insights and stories!#WyomingRising #BasketballJourney #IdahoPremier

Join us on the Wyoming Rising podcast as we dive into the journey of Neil Summers, a standout basketball player from Laramie High School! 🏀In this episode, Neil shares his experiences as a three-time state championship finalist, his transition to college basketball, and the lessons he's learned along the way. From his early days in youth basketball to becoming a Gatorade Player of the Year, Neil's story is one of determination and passion for the game.Key takeaways:* Neil's early basketball memories and the importance of youth tournaments.* The impact of coaching and mentorship on his development.* Insights into the challenges faced during high school championship games.* The transition to college basketball and adapting to a new playing style.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:30 Early basketball memories05:00 Transition to high school basketball10:00 State championship experiences15:00 College basketball journey20:00 Lessons learned and future goalsWhat's your biggest challenge in basketball? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more inspiring stories from Wyoming athletes!#WyomingRising #BasketballJourney #LaramieHighSchool

Join as we talk to Nate Miner in this episode of the Wyoming Rising podcast. We dive into Nate's journey, a two-time All-State basketball player and the recent star of Sheridan High School's state championship team! 🏀In this episode, Nate shares his early basketball memories, the grind behind his success, and the mindset that led his team to victory. Discover how hard work and determination can lead to achieving your dreams in sports and life.Key takeaways:Nate's journey from playing multiple sports to focusing on basketballThe importance of mindset and preparation in winning a state championshipInsights into the culture of Sheridan basketball and its passionate fanbaseNate's plans for college basketball at Rocky Mountain CollegeTimestamps:00:00 Introduction00:10 Nate's early basketball memories02:00 Transitioning to serious basketball05:00 The importance of hard work10:00 Winning the state championship15:00 The culture of Sheridan basketball20:00 Nate's future at Rocky Mountain UniversityWhat's your biggest challenge in pursuing your sports dreams? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more inspiring stories and insights from the world of Wyoming basketball!#WyomingBasketball #NateMiner #StateChampionshipJoin as we talk to Nate Miner in this episode of the Wyoming Rising podcast. We dive into Nate's journey, a two-time All-State basketball player and the recent star of Sheridan High School's state championship team! 🏀In this episode, Nate shares his early basketball memories, the grind behind his success, and the mindset that led his team to victory. Discover how hard work and determination can lead to achieving your dreams in sports and life.Key takeaways:Nate's journey from playing multiple sports to focusing on basketballThe importance of mindset and preparation in winning a state championshipInsights into the culture of Sheridan basketball and its passionate fanbaseNate's plans for college basketball at Rocky Mountain CollegeTimestamps:00:00 Introduction00:10 Nate's early basketball memories02:00 Transitioning to serious basketball05:00 The importance of hard work10:00 Winning the state championship15:00 The culture of Sheridan basketball20:00 Nate's future at Rocky Mountain UniversityWhat's your biggest challenge in pursuing your sports dreams? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more inspiring stories and insights from the world of Wyoming basketball!#WyomingBasketball #NateMiner #StateChampionship