It’s the first thing most people notice about Gavin Levy. But he also makes a big impression.

“He’s always been humble. Always been coachable. And he’s never had an over inflated opinion about his talents,” said Ray Kaniatyn, a physical education teacher at Hunter College High School in Manhattan.

What You Need To Know

  • Gavin Levy started playing basketball in 5th grade and quickly realized how advantageous his height was plus his skill

  • Though Gavin loves basketball, academics always come first. A recent government class made him interested in pursuing a degree in law

  • Starting on the varsity squad as a sophomore wasn't easy, but through the help and support of the junior and seniors, Levy found his confidence. Now he hopes to return the favor to the members of the team who might never have played in high school due to the COVID-19 shutdown

The senior started shooting hoops in the 5th grade and it was love at first dribble.

“Basketball is an escape for me and a thrill that I don’t really get anywhere else in my life,” Levy said.

Levy has been hitting the hardwood ever since, starting varsity as a sophomore.

“The seniors and juniors really took me under their wing and taught me so much,” said Levy.

Now team captain, Levy hopes to do the same, especially for players joining the team for the first time after the pandemic shut down high school sports.

“Just to be on the court with my friends who I had not seen in so long and to see my coaches. It was really just an incredible feeling that I’ve been waiting for for so long," Levy remembered. "It was really amazing.”

While balancing a number of advanced placement courses, volunteer work, and a busy practice schedule. Levy is grateful for lessons learned both on and off the court.

“I think that it’s a great parallel to life because a lot of times in life, obviously things are not going to go your way and you have to stick to the script. You have to keep pushing," Levy said. "It’s taught me to really focus and persevere.”

Perseverance is the name of the game. He led the charge as president of the Athletics Association to get sports up and running again.

“I would just say that I’ve learned that you can’t ever take anything for granted, even when I’m tired or don’t really feel like playing, every single basketball practice, I just have to enjoy it,” Levy said.