By Angela Brunk
Russell High School senior Sam Thielen enters his final season with a renewed edge and a clear mission to help his team win 15 or more games and prove that the Broncos are no longer the team opponents can push around. As a shooting guard and forward, Thielen brings a blend of scoring ability, physicality, and leadership that has grown tremendously over the offseason.
For Thielen, the weight room became a second home. He and his teammates committed themselves to getting stronger, tougher, and more dominant, aiming to erase the softness they felt defined last year’s squad. That offseason effort, he believes, will change the way opponents view Russell this season. “Teams are going to know when they play against Russell,” he says, a reflection of the new mentality and physical presence the Broncos have built.
One matchup Thielen is especially excited about is against Pratt. Pratt overpowered Russell last season, but Thielen feels the tables may turn. While Pratt brings size, Russell brings speed, toughness, and three-level scoring, making this a game the Broncos are eager to prove themselves in.
Despite being a capable scorer, Thielen is staying focused on the team’s success. He avoids worrying about his individual stats, instead keeping his attention on the next opponent and adding another mark in the winning column.
As for the future, Thielen is still undecided on where he will attend college, but he knows he wants to continue competing. While a three-sport athlete in baseball, football, and basketball, he acknowledges that baseball is his strongest sport and could shape his collegiate path.
With his work ethic, leadership, and toughness, Sam Thielen is ready to help lead Russell to one of its strongest seasons yet.
