By Ken Hansard
The Wichita East High Blue Aces qualified for the state tournament last season, beating Junction City and South High to win their sub-state, only to suffer the agony of an early exit, bowing to Shawnee Mission Northwest in the first round. From that team, the Aces return only one of the ten players who saw significant varsity minutes. Enter sophomore forward Eliot Hill.
Hill found himself in a unique position last season – a freshman who saw mostly non-varsity action during the regular season, but one who proved his mettle at the right time, and while he did not get many minutes, as a freshman, he was allowed to suit for varsity for the postseason, thus gaining some valuable experience, “I didn’t get to play any varsity during the regular season, but starting the season on C team and working my way all the way up to playing at Charles Koch Arena at the end of the season was extremely rewarding and something I’ll never forget.”
Now, as a sophomore, Hill finds himself once more in a distinctive situation – as an underclassman who will be looked to for some leadership. “I’m primarily looking forward to what this team can become – having basically started brand new. Even if this season starts out rough, I think the guys we have are capable of making us into one of the best teams in the state.”
So far, so good. The Aces, as of this writing, are 2-0 in GWAL play to begin the season, with a tough Kapaun team looming on the horizon.
Knowing that East had lost almost all of their minutes from last year, Hill put in extra time in the off-season to elevate his game, “I believe my role is going to be to contribute a few points here and there; however, more importantly, I believe I can make significant contributions to the team through leadership and helping other players understand what coach wants from us. At times last year, I struggled with offensive assertion, but I think building up confidence and trust with my teammates has allowed me to play better offensively than I ever have.”
Hill also believes that losing all those seniors from last year doesn’t have to mean a step back for the Aces, “My goal is for the team to come off that postseason run from last year and, not only match it, but build on it with our new roster and weapons. No team is perfect, so a few losses are to be expected. However, I think if we stick through it and persevere as a team, we will be just fine.”
Outside of basketball, Eliot has several other interests. He plays soccer for the Aces and plays in the band. Hill is also a star in the classroom, boasting a 4.0 G.P.A. Graduation is still far off, but Eliot knows that he would like to someday explore his options at the collegiate level.
