Q-and-A with Brian Bennett, Plainfield East basketball

• Reprints

Brian Bennett, Plainfield East

Updated: January 8, 2012 8:18AM

The 6-foot-9 senior center had 13 points and 11 rebounds in the 37-35 victory over Schaumburg to win the St. Charles East Thanksgiving Tournament. He’ll attend Cal-Poly State in San Luis Obispo.

How would you describe the season?

The season has gone unbelievable. We have a mind-set of what we want to do. To see how much everybody worked in the offseason, the seniors are more mature.

What’s it like to help start the program?

It’s been really amazing, to see where it started and where it is today. We’ve been there for each other. It’s a great opportunity to start a tradition.

How have you improved as a player?

I lost 50 pounds from the end of last season. I was in the weight room a lot. It helps the team to be in better shape, I stay in the game longer.

Favorite NBA player?

Dwight Howard. He’s just an animal. He’s an unbelievable post player.

Any interests outside of basketball?

I’m a really big soccer fan, international soccer. I have a lot of friends who play soccer. We watch the World Cup whenever it’s on.

What will you remember most about Plainfield East?

Two things: Definitely my coaches and my team. Another big thing would be starting over for me, grades and body-wise.

What would make the season a success?

We want to make a run at state, but a major success would be to win conference as a senior-heavy team, knowing we achieved our first goal.

As told to Tim Tierney