Meet Mo Britten

There are those blazing comets who burst upon the basketball scene as freshmen and create an instant buzz. But the norm is that most prospects undertake a gradual establishment and then buildup of their prep reputations, culminating in strong upperclassmen seasons. Del Campo High (Fair Oaks) and Team Sage member Mo Britten is among the latter.

The 6-foot-2 Britten is averaging 9.2 points, 5.1 rebounds and 1.5 steals as a junior for Coach Dave Nobis, whose team stands 13-4 this season, 1-0 in the Capital Valley League. A sixth man last year as a sophomore, he's in the starting five this season. That move up has been validated as Britten earned first-team honors in both the Kendall Arnett and Mesa Verde tournaments.

Asked about his best basketball skills, Britten offered, "rebounding, my hook shot in the post and dribbling." He see himself as "more versatile and more physical" since his earlier days.

But another query illustrated another skill, one that warms the hearts of coaches.

In describing the roles he plays for Team Sage and with Del Campo, Britten said of the former "just doing my part to help us win" because of the level of talent on the squad. Regarding the latter, "it's more of me being a leader."

Here's Team Sage founder and Coach Wornel Simpson on Britten: "Mo is an extremely hard worker and a very unselfish player. His basketball IQ is high and his focus is always within the confines of the team concept. His versatility allows me to move him to all five positions. In practice he guards Terrence (White) on the wing and bangs Benson (Osayande) and Jamarryion (Simmons) down low. He has had some great games against many of the elite AAU teams we have played. His length allows him to block multiple shots and his spin moves are patented. He actually plays a lot bigger then his listed 6-foot-2. In addition, Mo is smart, thoughtful and tough-minded at the same time. No matter what adversity we have faced in the past four years, Mo is always steady and will be a great find for the right university."

Exemplifying Britten's play is his choice for his best moment on the court.

"In a rivalry game last season, :someone stole the ball against us and headed for a layup. I ran after him and was able to pin the ball against the backboard."

It was the type of effort and outcome that won't appear in a boxscore but was just as influential as a nifty pass or a dunk.

Britten offered that his mother and brother "are my biggest influences. They keep me focused and at it, with my eye on the prize."

Maybe best of all, he is looking to major in mathematics in college. When's the last time, if there was one, with that area of study as a higher education focus for an athlete?

Talk to Britten mother and you'll learn another trait he possesses.

"Mo wants his team to do good and for everybody be there for each other and work together. He's the mediator when something comes up."

She also offered this blessing to her son: "Travel the world, make your mark in it and give me some place to come see you."