Cedric Jenkins
Cedric Jenkins is a men’s basketball guard majoring in sports management. He is a graduate from LaPlace who, despite battling injuries, set a season high of 39 points against the University of New Orleans. He also had a season high of eight rebounds and seven assists.
The Lion’s Roar: What was the highlight of your season?
Cedric Jenkins: I would have to say the highlight would be our last four games and our three game winning streak. Personally, in our last four games, I felt really confident in myself.
TLR: What is the greatest benefit you have gained from playing basketball?
CJ: I think I’ve learned a lot about myself and developed a different type of confidence in myself.
TLR: What do you plan to do after you leave Southeastern?
CJ: I want to try to play professionally and also continue to work to get my master’s.
TLR: When did you first start playing basketball and why?
CJ: I started playing when I was five years old and actually taught myself how to play by watching. My family quickly noticed how talented I was at and they started getting me involved in programs.
TLR: Why did you first start playing basketball?
CJ: I wanted to start playing because I come from a family full of athletes. It brought my family together.
TLR: What is some advice you have for younger athletes trying to balance sports and school?
CJ: Before you can balance those, you need to learn how to manage your time and be confident in yourself because anything is possible.
TLR: How else are you involved besides sports?
CJ: I’m active in my church and in my community. Sometimes I go back to my high school to help younger athletes who are looking for answers to questions about going to college and how it is.
TLR: What do you like to do in your free time?
CJ: I really like to just stay to myself. I read a lot and watch movies, [and do] things that don’t require much moving. I get lazy because I have little free time, so other than resting, I enjoy being with my family and having long talks with my grandparents, my elders and other family members about points of life that I will get to and how to handle certain situations.
TLR: Do you have any inspirational figures?
CJ: Yes, actually. My first one is my mom. My mom taught me to be confident, humble and thankful for everything that I gain from being successful with basketball and any other things outside of sports. From an athletic standpoint, my uncle was drafted into the Yankees. Watching all that he went through with baseball taught me a lot and what it meant to be a successful athlete. Also my grandfather taught me how to be a man, go to church and put family first. My mannerisms come from him.