Riley Reisner is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Basha High School for AZPreps365.com.

Percy "Trey" Knox isn’t just another name on a roster or a highlight reel—he’s a student-athlete who embodies excellence in every facet of his life. As a standout defensive back for Basha High School’s football team and a high-achieving track and field athlete, Trey has earned a reputation for his speed, agility, and game-changing plays. But what truly sets him apart is his ability to balance elite athletic performance with academic excellence, maintaining a 4.0 GPA while navigating the challenges of high school, social life, and personal growth.

For many student-athletes, managing multiple sports while excelling in the classroom can feel like an impossible task. However, for Trey, structure and discipline are the keys to success.

“Thankfully, at Basha, the school makes it easier to balance everything,” Trey said. “I can get a lot of my homework done in class, so I don’t have a ton of work to do after school. After practice, I focus on recovery, finish any homework I have left, and then it’s time for bed.”

This daily commitment ensures that neither his studies nor his athletic development fall by the wayside. Whether it’s tackling an advanced coursework assignment or perfecting his footwork on the field, Trey approaches every task with the same relentless work ethic.

Trey’s athletic talents speak for themselves, but his leadership is what truly sets him apart. His head coach, Marcus Brunson, has seen firsthand how Trey’s resilience and determination elevate those around him.

“He’s almost like an extra coach out there,” Brunson said. “Trey is the kind of kid who keeps the main thing the main thing."

That leadership was on full display during last year’s state finals in track. Trey, the only non-freshman on his relay team, had to step up when the lineup changed at the last minute. Battling back from an ankle injury, he took charge and helped the team medal in the Division 1 Championships.

“To me, that just shows what kind of competitor he is,” Brunson added. “Athletically, maturity-wise, as a person—he’s the kind of guy you want on your team.”

For Trey, the hunger for success started long before high school. He recalls an early taste of victory during his time in flag football, where his team won back-to-back NFL Flag Championships.

“That experience really showed me what winning feels like,” Trey said. “It made me want to strive for that in everything I do.”

Whether it’s making crucial defensive stops on the football field or anchoring a relay team in track, Trey thrives on competition. He embraces the individual nature of track but also cherishes the brotherhood and shared battles that come with football.

Trey’s ability to excel in both academics and athletics isn’t accidental. It’s the result of years of discipline instilled by his parents. His father, Percy Knox, emphasized the importance of consistency and focus from an early age.

“The first thing Trey was taught was that grades are more important than anything,” Percy said. “We instilled a mindset where getting an A wasn’t hard—it was about being consistent in school, showing up, doing homework, and paying attention in class.”

That academic discipline has paid off, with Trey never receiving anything less than an A throughout his school career. It’s a testament to the work ethic his parents nurtured in him—one that extends beyond the classroom and onto the field.

Despite his demanding schedule, Trey still finds time for personal growth and enjoying high school life. His ability to balance sports, academics, and social life is a rare trait, making him an inspiration to his teammates and classmates alike.

As Basha High School’s track season is in swing, all eyes are on Trey once again. But whether he’s sprinting down the track, making a game-saving tackle, or acing an exam, one thing is clear—Trey Knox is much more than an athlete. He’s a relentless competitor, a natural leader, and a young man determined to make the most of every opportunity in front of him.