Greencastle's Gooch follows in dad's footsteps

Growing up in a house where his father played both high school and college basketball, it can be argued that Sam Gooch would be destined to follow suit.

And, the Greencastle standout has done just that, emerging as one of the premiere players not only in the Western Indiana Conference, but across West Central Indiana. 

"He bought me a goal when I was just learning to walk. It was just something we did together," Gooch said of how he was introduced to basketball.

Since then, Gooch admits he has put pressure on himself to not only follow his dad, who played at Marian, but also make him proud.

"I put pressure on myself because I want to do well and want to make my dad proud. I hear a lot about what a good basketball player he was when he played. My dad always talks to me about what I do well and what I need to improve on, but I don't feel like he puts unnecessary pressure on me. It's more like he motivates me," Gooch explained. 

The motivation has paid off nicely, as Gooch has helped lead the Tiger Cubs to 12-5 record and six game win streak heading into a Feb. 8 contest at Brown County.

As a team, our ability to win key games has improved significantly since last year. We know how to win so far this year," he said. 

The lessons have also paid off nicely for Gooch himself.

"For me personally, I feel like I've improved as the season has gone on. I was coming off a knee injury. I had to get used to playing with a brace, and I think that's had some challenges. I feel more confident now and am able to play without my brace," Gooch said.

With an ability to knock down shots and jump out of the gym, Gooch said he attributes his success to his "God given ability."

"I think God gave me some athletic gifts. I've worked hard to make the most of those gifts. I've also had wonderful coaches, teammates, friends and family that supported me and encouraged me," he said. 

Back at full strength, Gooch is looking to bring both a Putnam County Tournament and sectional title to Greencastle, and he believes the Tiger Cubs can do it.

"Yes, I definitely think we can win both. We are playing good team basketball right now. If we continue to work hard and progress as a team, anything is possible," Gooch said.