Personal Statement

I am Diego Pena, a member of the Class of 2025 hailing from the vibrant island of Puerto Rico. Growing up amidst the rich culture and resilient spirit of this place has instilled within me an unyielding sense of pride and discipline that sets me apart. My journey with basketball commenced when I first cradled a basketball at the tender age of 3, and since that moment, I have pursued this passion with unwavering determination. The pandemic-induced isolation of quarantine prompted a profound realization: basketball is not just a game; it is my calling, my life's purpose. I cherish the relentless pursuit of self-improvement, the tireless grind that separates the exceptional from the ordinary, and, above all, I am prepared to embrace the sacrifices that come with the territory of being a student-athlete.

Basketball is where I find my truest self-expression. Beyond my devotion to the sport, I am acutely aware of the significance of academic excellence, and I am committed to graduating high school with no less than a 3.5 GPA. My most significant basketball achievement to date has been elevating my former school, UHS, from relative obscurity to Division 1 prominence within the league. Through my leadership, tactical acumen on both ends of the court, and a strong rapport with the coach, we transformed our team into a formidable force that proudly represented our institution. I am animated by an unbridled enthusiasm for what the world of basketball holds in store for me, and I stand resolute in my determination to invest the necessary effort to become the finest version of myself in this pursuit.