Whiz Kid: The Champion Free Thrower

Nailing 25 free throws isn’t easy for anyone. Especially on the big stage in front of hundreds of people when you’re a fifth grader competing for the state championship. 

That’s exactly what Shane Wilk did. A fifth grader at Walnut Acres Elementary, Shane nailed 22 of 25 free throws in the final round of the California State Free Throw Championship in Fresno to take home the first place trophy for his age group.

Shane’s entire family made the trip to Fresno to cheer him on in the championship, where he competed against 12 other boys who were regional winners from throughout California. In the final round, Shane ended up shooting against his rival who just narrowly beat him in an earlier round.

Shane progressed through four rounds over two months to earn the chance to compete in the state championship. It was a long road, but Shane kept working hard to improve throughout the regional rounds.

Shane had to work hard and get ready in the final week before the big event.

“I actually only got to practice one day that week, and I practiced a lot before Fresno," Shane explained. "In practice at a gym I got 24 of 25, so I thought I might be able to do that.” 

“I was a little bit nervous after the other competitors got 20 of 25, and my best was 18 of 25,” said Shane. “Whenever I make the first one, I usually feel good for the rest of the round. It felt good to win because I wasn’t supposed to be there in the first place!”

In sports competitions, especially events like free throw contests or the home run derby, going last is optimal because you know when you win.

“After the last person went, I felt great. It looked like my mom was going to cry, and [winning] felt surprising and good at the same time,” explained Shane. 

Both Shane's parents are especially proud of his accomplishment because they say he earned it with determination and hard work, practicing with his best friend Jonathan Louie.

In addition to basketball, Shane also enjoys soccer, some football, and track and field. Recently, Shane ran a six-minute mile, something his dad says he has lots of potential in.

“Shane could really excel if he put his mind to [track and field],” said Kevin Wilk.

On top of all the sports Shane plays, he somehow finds time for other extracurriculars.

“I watch basketball games, sit with my family and watch TV,” said Shane. “My parents say I play very good piano, and clarinet in band at school. I was recently in the fifth grade play, The Aristocrat, and I’m in student council.”

Like many kids his age, Shane wants to someday play basketball at the college level. 

“My goal is to try to be a basketball player when I grow up, maybe I could play basketball in college,” said Shane. “I would probably try to take [a scholarship or NBA draft]. I wouldn’t want to be one of those people who only care about the money.”

Whether Shane Wilk is competing in the Final Four for the NCAAor drilling free throws for his high school team, you can be sure that he will give it 110 percent.