Nansemond River High School’s Jeremiah Lewis was voted Duke Automotive player of the week after scoring 19 points and grabbing 12 rebounds for the Warriors in a basketball win over Hickory last week.

Jeremiah Lewis is a sophomore forward for the Nansemond River boys’ basketball team. This is his first year playing on the varsity level, and it is safe to say he has adjusted well. He comes off the bench for the Warriors and provides a spark.

Lewis knew that role was fine for him once he knew how much it’d help the team.

Adjusting to the varsity pace and team wasn’t hard for Lewis. He was already familiar with his teammates and knew hard work was going to pay off. His primary goal this year is to do what he can to help his team out.

“I feel like coming off the bench is the best fit for me,” Lewis said. “It allows me to add a spark to the game. I’ve played with this same talented group since I was in the sixth grade, so I knew I could have success with them.

Through seven games, Lewis has had multiple double-doubles in the sixth-man role for the Warriors. He prides himself on his hard work. Each day he has the mindset that nobody is going to work harder than he does, whether in the classroom or the court.

Lewis is a solid rebounder and has a good touch around the basket. He can play under the basket and also stretch his game out into the mid-range area. Motivation comes in many forms. He thrives on being told he cannot do something. At times he also feels underrated, which also gives him the motivation to play as hard as he can.

“He’s a good kid,” Warriors coach Ed Young said. “He’s been playing really well and has been improving every game. I like how he is progressing. He gives us firepower off the bench at both ends of the floor. He’s coming along, and he’s going to play a big part in any kind of success this team has.”

Encouragement is a big part of who Lewis is as a player as it helps builds his confidence. He is constantly encouraged by friends, family, teammates and coaches. It helps him strive to be better every day.

“He’s played above expectations,” teammate Dy’Quan McGhee said. “He’s a great player in my opinion and works extremely hard to achieve all that he has so far.”

On game days Lewis listens to music throughout the day to help him get into his zone. Pre-game naps help him in his preparation, as well.

When he is not around basketball, Lewis can be seen hanging with friends and family and also studying. Anthony Davis, an NBA All-Star forward for the New Orleans Pelicans, is someone Lewis likes to watch.

Catch Lewis and the Warriors as they take on Suffolk rival Lakeland at home on Dec. 21. The game set to start at 7:15 p.m.