Choctaw’s Jordan Valentine
By Elizabeth Contreras
Choctaw High School’s Jordan Valentine was introduced to basketball by his brothers and began playing competitively in the third grade. He learned early on what it meant to compete, communicate, and hold his own. Those lessons built the foundation for a player who now takes pride in doing the gritty, often overlooked work on the court. From shutting down opposing scorers to knocking down timely three-pointers, his impact shows up in the moments that matter most.
Now a senior, Valentine’s defensive mindset has become his calling card. Tasked with guarding top scorers each game, he embraces the challenge, knowing that defense can shift momentum just as quickly as a highlight dunk.
“I’m more of a 3-and-D type of player,” he said. “My role on the team is to stop the other team’s best player from scoring.”
While Valentine is a reliable shooter beyond the arc, it is his on-ball defense and role as a glue guy that elevates the entire team by doing the tough, unglamorous work. He is praised for his hard-nosed, smart defense and ability to guard different positions. His tenacious attitude paired with sound fundamentals make Valentine efficient and impactful on the defensive end of the floor.
Offensively, Valentine has significantly improved his scoring capabilities, particularly as a lefty perimeter shooter.
“I spend countless hours in the gym,” shared Valentine, who continued to say his biggest strength is his three-point shooting.
Under the guidance of Coach Simpson, Valentine has continued to refine his game and embrace the responsibilities that come with his role. Valentine emphasizes mental readiness, and before games he keeps his routine simple by listening to music and locking in.
That mental approach has helped him navigate both highs and lows, including the opportunity to learn from losses and mistakes.
“After a loss or mistake, stay positive, learn from it, and focus on improving for the next game,” Valentine said. That perspective has guided his development, especially in high-pressure situations.
The culture at Choctaw has undoubtedly played a major role in Valentine’s success on the team. He describes the team’s connection as a brotherhood, built on trust, communication, and accountability. That bond translates to game day, where leadership and teamwork mean supporting one another and working together toward shared goals.
Valentine has set his sights on big accomplishments this season, including a state championship run and earning the team’s first all-district honors. After graduation, he hopes to continue playing at the next level, carrying with him a message he lives by: run your own race.
