In the town of Poteau, Connor Whitworth’s journey as a basketball player began at the age of seven, joining the All-Staters team. A passion ignited in him, and ever since, he has been a loyal player for the Poteau Pirates.
Basketball runs in Connor’s blood, inspired not just by the love for the game but by family legacy. His mom, a state champion in high school, made playing sports feel like a given. “Basketball was in my blood,” he says, and from the first time he held a ball, there was no looking back.
Drawing inspiration from the basketball legend Pistol Pete Maravich, Connor has honed his skills with a focus on precision and finesse. “Growing up, my dad always had me watching old videos. Ball handling, shooting, passing drills and the mental side of basketball. So, I always strived to have the perfect jump shot like Pistol Pete Maravich,” Connor emphasized.
Balancing academics and athletics seamlessly, Connor reflects on his journey: “I have been doing both for so long; it comes easy.” But his high school career had its defining moment during a game against Checotah. Down by one with less than five seconds left, Connor made two free throws, securing a triumphant victory that etched a lasting memory.
Facing the challenges of being tall and slender, Connor took charge of his physical development in the past two years through weightlifting, speed and agility training. The result was evident in his improved performance on the court.
Being part of a team became a catalyst for character development. “Growing up with most of the same guys has made it easy to be pushed or motivated by my teammates,” Connor shared.
Reflecting on his coaches, Connor singles out Jarret Lowrimore, a significant influence in his high school career. Describing Lowrimore as a coach who comes around “once in a lifetime,” Connor credits him for pushing him through both golf and basketball, shaping him into the athlete he is today.
As Connor looks ahead, his plans involve attending the University of Arkansas Monticello to continue his golf career, a testament to the multidimensional athlete he has become through years of dedication and passion for sports.
