Zay Freeney claims he was born into the game of basketball.

“Well the story goes, I was born while the Sixers and Lakers game was on in the hospital room,” Freeney said. “Since I was a little baby my dad put the ball in my hand and I just fell in love with it.”

Growing up, Freeney’s passion for the game grew. So did his talent, Freeney is a freshman starter for South Mountain High School.

Seddrick Freeney, Zay’s father and personal coach growing up, said his son is a student of the game.

“It’s amazing watching him now and just the level of experience that he has.”

Zay knew that South was at the top of his list when he was looking for a high school to attend because his father is an alumnus of South Mountain.

In the next three years at South, Zay has a few goals in mind.

“Coach says I make a lot of fresh mistakes late in games so that’s my number one priority is getting over that hump of mental mistakes,” Freeney said. “Definitely going to playoffs, but with the years going forward, a state championship is the main goal.”

As one of the leading scorers, Freeney does not take that as a reason to slack off in the gym.

In a game in junior high, Freeney went 0 for 10 from the 3-point line, 0 for 20 shooting and missed all of his free throws in a game.

“I thought I was the man,” Freeney said. “That woke me up for sure that I wasn’t as good as I thought I was. I still carry that lesson forward with me until this day.”

Freeney said becoming a better player and adding new aspects to his game is something he will always work on due to that experience.

Freeney is in the Law Magnet at South Mountain. His interest in law motivates him to work as hard as he does for basketball.

He hopes to one day get into law school and further his education.

“My mom says that if basketball doesn’t get you into college, those straight A’s will,” Freeney said.

Freeney said his motivation comes from his family, his father in particular.

“My dad is my guy. He does everything for me,” Freeney said. “He works hard for himself and my family, and I just want to be like him some day.”

Seddrick Freeney said his son, has a huge heart and wants to use his love for the game as a motivation to help others in the future.

Ultimately, Freeney would like to play professionally, but also give back and have his own charity.

“I want to give back to those who want to play basketball, but they don’t have the opportunity to because they don’t have the funds they need.”