At Wilson High School, junior Case Kana has emerged as a driven, team-minded athlete who leads not with words, but with steady effort and a genuine desire to see those around him succeed. A two-sport competitor in basketball and track, Kana approaches every season with the same mindset: do whatever it takes to help his teammates reach their full potential. “What motivates me is wanting my team and teammates to succeed,” he says, an attitude that has defined his growth as both an athlete and a leader.
Kana’s passion for basketball is shaped in part by one of his biggest role models, NBA star Russell Westbrook. Westbrook’s intensity, energy, and love for the game have long inspired him. “His passion for basketball is something I look up to,” Kana explains. That same fire fuels his own commitment to the gym, where he has spent countless hours developing his skills.
Academics, though, remain a priority, thanks to the influence of one of his favorite teachers, Sammie Reed. She is the one who consistently reminds him that schoolwork comes first, an important lesson for a student-athlete juggling practices on weekends and long training sessions. “She made it clear that academics come before athletics,” Kana says.
One of the standout moments of his career so far came early: making the Area Tournament as a freshman. The experience sparked his confidence and laid the foundation for the player he is becoming. And when it comes to rivals, beating Healdton always brings a special thrill. “They are a big rival of Wilson,” he says, “so it always means more.”
In practice, Kana values teammates who push him, and no one does that more than Josh Gage. Whether competing in drills or raising the intensity at practice, the two make each other better every day.
Kana is also active beyond athletics, participating in FCA and Beta at Wilson. On social media, he enjoys following Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, drawn to his smooth style of play and elite skill.
Balancing sports and school takes discipline, and Kana’s approach is simple: don’t procrastinate. “Do your assignments when you get them,” he says. And when he steps onto the court or track, he feels the weight and pride of representing Wilson. “It means a lot. I always want to make a good impression of our town and school.”
