Lessons Cole Buie gained by playing basketball can be taken off the court. Handling adversity and overcoming setbacks are valuable skills for this Elk City senior to have as he enters his final year of high school.

ECHS basketball coach Tyler Foale has noticed Cole’s skills on the court. He praises Cole as a left-handed, athletic guard. “He is a good scorer, who can also create shots for his teammates. He is the ultimate competitor and can single-handedly take over a game,” said Foale.

Playing basketball along with football and baseball allows Cole to fulfill his love of competing while having fun year-round. Being on a team is fun. “Just being able to hang out with my friends and grow closer to each other,” he says is his favorite part of being on a team.

A personal accomplishment Cole is proud of is being able to dunk the ball at 5’8”. “I just liked to play ball ever since I was born. I can’t remember a time when I didn’t have a ball of some sort in my hands,” he says. 

While representing ECHS as a student-athlete Cole wants to make a positive impact on the younger kids through sports. “The best advice I have received is to just be me, don’t try to be like anyone else,” he said.

Cooper Patton is the teammate who leaves a big impression on Cole. He gives 100 percent and is always a good teammate. The professional athlete Cole looks up to is former OU quarterback Baker Mayfield, now playing for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. “I just like the competitor he is and the energy he brings to his team,” said Cole.

Cole’s favorite teacher is Mr. Swartwood. “He’s just the GOAT,” says Cole.

Coles gives special recognition to his parents. “A person who inspires me is my father. He is the hardest worker I know and does a lot for my family and me. I would like to give a shoutout and thank you to my wonderful mother Shannon Buie. I wouldn’t be here without her,” he said.

Athletics keep Cole busy, but he can always find time to enjoy his favorite meal of Carne Adobe from El Patio. While enjoying his favorite Mexican food he can plan a dream vacation to Mexico with his best friends and teammates he refers to as “My Boys.”