Student Athlete of the Week – Jake Abawag

Shadow Hills Senior Jake Abawag knows how to make plays on and off the court.

“When I got to high school I realized that it’s harder to shoot over the taller defenders,” said Jake.

“It was a little more difficult, I developed a shot so I wouldn’t have to drive in as much and leave the middle to the bigs and when I get in, I get in.” Jake is a four-year varsity starter for Shadow Hills. He also has a 4.6 GPA, he has never received less than an A. “My parents really emphasized I’m blessed with this life that I have. Both of my grandparents had a harsh life growing up, one of them dropped out of school at third grade and I think one of them didn’t even go, so I need to be grateful for this education.” Ryan Towner, the Shadow Hills basketball head coach, says Jake leads the knights by example. “Most of all he’s a true point guard. He gets everyone going. He finds the guys that we need to give more shots to, he doesn’t care whether he scores 20 points or 2 points,” said Towner.

Abawag plans to attend Cal Baptist University in Riverside and pursue his degree in nursing. “I grew up around a lot of medical professionals,” said Jake, “and a lot of them are nurses and I want to help people with anything I can do.” “I see Jake being a great nurse,” said Towner, “I’m a nurse myself too as well so it’s pretty cool I can give him guidance not only basketball but in real life situations in his career.” When it comes to what to do away from the court and school, the choice is easy for Jake. “I have a girlfriend she’s amazing. I love hanging around her, I have a good group of friends too.”