By Michael Scheinert ’16
THE ROUNDUP

Ever since the first grade, Romano Bottini ’14 has had a love for basketball.

As captain of the varsity basketball team, Bottini said this season is particularly special.

He is a veteran presence to the seniors and especially the two-thirds of the team that consists of juniors and sophomores.

According to Bottini, his favorite part about his senior season is the leadership role he must assume.

He said this year’s team is his favorite one yet that he has had the opportunity to play with.

“My favorite part about the game is simply being part of a team,” Bottini said. “I know that as this year progresses, the memories will last forever and there’s nothing better than that.”

Bottini said he enjoys the Brophy basketball program because it is very organized, with an emphasis on teamwork and sticking together as one unit.

He added that head coach Mr. Tony Fuller has had a huge influence on him and that he admires how he runs the program with a style similar to a collegiate one.

“Waking up every day has a purpose,” Bottini said. “My motivation is knowing we have the opportunity to win a state championship and my goal is to make my senior season as memorable as possible.”

Co-captain Conor Triplett ’14 has been with him throughout their basketball journeys.

“I’ve been lucky to play with and against Romano since elementary school,” Triplett said. “He has always been a tough player, both physically and mentally. He has a tireless work ethic and is always working on ways to help make himself and his team better. I know that when I’m on the floor with Romano, he will always have my back, give his full effort and help me lead our squad.”

Bottini said he does not model his style of play after a specific player but that he likes to view himself as a defensive specialist and a scrappy player willing to do anything for the team’s good.

A fan of the hometown Phoenix Suns, Bottini said he enjoys spending his free time hiking and hanging out with friends and family.