Freshman Langston Thompson was ecstatic when he learned he would compete this winter on the same SPA basketball team as his brother, junior Oliver Thompson.
For Langston, growing up and practicing the same sports as his older brother Oliver was just another way to spend time with him. From soccer to basketball to track, both Thompson’s competed together, even at their elementary school, Yinghua Academy. This year, being on the same team again promised more fun and unforgettable memories.
Both brothers share perspectives on how their different sports are played, which allows them to understand and communicate their thoughts easily.
“I feel like I can be more open with him … I don’t have to be as eloquent to ask him something or tell him something,” Oliver said.
Friendly competition between the brothers has also helped them continue to improve.

“There’s an air of competitiveness, I can’t have my little brother beating me after all,” Oliver said.
Their time together as teammates and rivals has forged a stronger bond on and off the field.
Oliver’s experience mentoring Langston has also helped him in his role as a captain of the track team this year.
“I give him more direction than other people … I have honestly higher expectations [because] I want him to succeed badly and I know what he is capable of,” Oliver said.
“We both push each other a lot to get better … I think it’s really beneficial,” Langston agreed.
Outside of regular practices, the brothers sometimes shoot a couple of baskets outside or compete in how much weight they can lift at the gym.
Both brothers have many hopes and dreams for the upcoming track season. As a captain, Oliver’s goal is to hopefully make it to state this year and continue building the Track and Field team.
“I think a big part of [my goal] is getting my brother and, in general, more younger people involved,” Oliver said.

Langston has similar goals for track. “[ I ] also want to make it to state at some point in high school,” Langston said. He also adds some future goals for basketball.

“I want to dunk the ball … at least before [my brother] gets it.”
Oliver and Langston hope to continue improving their individual skills through perseverance, passion, and most importantly the support of their brother. Their next meet is May 7 at The Blake School at 4:15.