Student Athlete of the Week – Albert Sauceda

COACHELLA, Calif. (KESQ) - Coachella Valley point guard Albert Sauceda is this week's student athlete of the week.

"For Albert, he's like a big brother figure for a lot of these guys," head coach Mike Rodriguez said. "He'll try to lighten the mood, or when somebody's down, he'll try to, like, hey, you know, it's okay. He'll make them laugh. It made him a better basketball player, better teammate, and better player. 

When it comes to the hardwood, Albert Sauceda is a workhorse, leading the team in minutes played and points per game, but it's the guidance of his coach that's helped him carve a pathway to success.

"Every time something has happened in my life, even outside of basketball, he's been there for me," Sauceda said. "You know, he's a great coach. You know, a very patient guy, you know, willing to talk to you and not just yell at you for your mistakes. You know, he'll sit there and talk to you, and I mean, just a great coach, great person overall. I'm happy to have him in my life."

Despite winning only one league title in his three-year career, Sauceda’s growth into the player he is today comes from his mindset of keeping his eyes on the prize.

"I just like the feeling of winning," Sauceda said. "I don't like the feeling of losing, so it just keeps me motivated and lets me know that there's still more steps to take."

With a long history of producing elite basketball players, Coach Rodriguez believes Sauceda has proven he is next in line to be recognized as one of the best in the arabs program.

"He applies himself in the classroom, gets in line to the court, and he knows what needs to be done in the classroom as far as grades and what's expected from teachers," head coach Rodriguez said. "On the court, he knows what's expected here by that, and he lives up to the expectations."

We are always looking for Student-Athlete of the Week nominations. If you know a senior who should be featured next, be sure to contact the KESQ sports department.

The Student-Athlete of the Week segment airs every Tuesday.