Lakewood's Caden Salyers signs with Southwestern Christian basketball
Mar. 18—Caden Salyers made his longtime dream come true when he put pen to paper.
The Lakewood senior signed his letter of intent Sunday to join the basketball team at Southwestern Christian University after his high school graduation this spring.
Before signing, Salyers shared some words for the crowd of his family, friends, and supporters.
"First, I would like to thank God. I wouldn't be here without Him. I would also like to thank my parents for investing their time and love into me, and thank you to my dad for being the best coach I could ask for," he said.
Salyers also thanked his other coaches who have been on the journey with him.
"I would also like to thank my AAU coach, coach Willie. Thank you for pushing me and making me better. Thank you to coach Wooldridge for believing in me and giving me a chance to play at the collegiate level," he said.
Salyers' love for basketball began in the first grade, and he's been draining shots ever since.
Signing to play college basketball has always been one of Salyers' lifelong dreams.
"It's been my dream since I was a kid," he said.
Signing with Southwestern was an easy choice according to Salyers.
"It felt like home and I was treated like family," he said.
Looking back on his favorite moments from high school ball, Salyers had many, but one stood out the most.
"Winning the Heartland Christian Athletic Association's state tournament twice," he said.
When he's not in the gym shooting hoops, Salyers plans on studying kinesiology and business.
Salyers' advice for others working toward their dreams? Never give up.
"Keep working and never give up. Your dreams don't have to be just dreams."
