Rogers senior Chad Bakken is a natural leader. His boisterous personality is evident not only on the basketball court but on the football field as well.
This winter, he’s leading a Rams basketball team that’s brimming with youth.
“Our goal is to just improve every game,” Bakken said. “We have a lot of new kids, and those guys are getting more experience every day. I’m trying to help the team get better and be a leader out there.”
Bakken said he’s learned a lot from Rogers head coach Rico Ancheta, whose old-school approach is something Bakken appreciates.
“He teaches us to be not just better basketball players but become better men,” Bakken said. “He teaches us lessons that we’re going to be using in life.”
The Herald recently asked Bakken a few questions about his life away from the basketball court.
The Herald: What is your favorite eatery in Puyallup?
Chad Bakken: I would probably have to say Red Robin. The steak fries and ranch are probably the top combination there.
TH: What is your biggest pet peeve?
CB: When people open the door to my room and don’t close it. I like to have privacy. When I’m playing Xbox, I get a little intense. I don’t want people downstairs to hear me yelling.
TH: Where do you see yourself in five years?
CB: I see myself coaching basketball somewhere. I would like to be an assistant basketball coach in college or high school.
TH: What is something unique about you that nobody would know?
CB: I love music. I played band in junior high, and I play the piano. I like singing, too.
TH: Who was your idol as you grew up?
CB: My father. He played college basketball, and he’s coached me my whole life. He has taught me a lot of life lessons.
TH: What was the last movie you saw in a theater?
CB: It was probably “Twilight.” It was pretty good. There is a good storyline.
TH: Who is your pick to win the Super Bowl?
CB: The San Francisco 49ers. Colin Kaepernick was the backup quarterback but is coming on strong. I think they’ve got a good defense going, too. Jim Harbaugh has done a good job with them.
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