East County Athlete of the Week: Danielle Dube

Danielle Dube, a 5-foot-10 junior guard/forward, has put up video-game-like numbers for Lakewood Ranch girls basketball, averaging 21.2 points per game as of Jan. 7. At that time, she led FHSAA Class 6A in scoring, per MaxPreps. Dube was also named MVP of the Longboat Key bracket at the Tampa Bay Christmas Invitational during winter break. Dube is the East County Athlete of the Week.

When and why did you start playing basketball?

I started playing basketball when I was very young. My mom (Amanda Dube) plays basketball, so she got me into it. I've just been loving it ever since.

Why have you stuck with the sport?

I did start to go in the softball direction for most of my life, but I just started to love (basketball) more as I played it. I continued to get better and I thought I had better opportunities, especially for my future, in basketball rather than in softball.

What's been the highlight of your career and why was it so memorable?

Definitely the people that I've met. My teammates, I've grown close to them. I've only been here for two years, but I've met some of my best friends through this sport. The relationships that come with that definitely have been the highlight.

How would you describe your style of play?

I communicate a lot. Especially during the game, I talk a lot to my teammates, help them out (and) tell them where to go. I try my best to create opportunities for everyone else as well as myself. There's opportunities where I can pass and then also take it myself.

What are your goals for your junior season with Lakewood Ranch?

I definitely think we can win districts if we continue to work hard and just continue to get better through practice. That's definitely one of our team goals. We've talked about it.

What's the next stage in your development as you round out your skill set?

To be honest, consistency — keeping that level and continuing to get better. Personally, I just need to stay high and continue to keep scoring those points and maybe add a little more to my other stats like assists and rebounds.

Is there a quote or piece of advice that you've always carried with you?

One that's really stuck with me is, "Never lose faith." I like that one because, especially when getting to the recruiting process of basketball, you're waiting to get those other opportunities. You just keep waiting, waiting and waiting. Have faith, trust yourself and trust that you'll get there eventually.

What's something not a lot of people know about you that you wish they knew?

Outside of basketball, I'm really quiet. That's the one thing that people don't know about me from basketball. During the game, I'm loud and I'm talkative. If you were to never meet me in basketball, you'd think I'm the quietest person ever.

What's your go-to music to help you get in the zone before a game?

I like to listen to worship music before my games. That gets me in the mood and gets me in a positive attitude.

Finish this sentence. Danielle Dube is...

A leader.