A player on the basketball court who has the ability to play multiple positions is a commodity for their team.
The Issaquah Eagles boys basketball team is blessed with the presence of 6-foot, 5-inch, sophomore Charlie Dietiker’s wide array of talents on the court. Dietiker, who has recorded a double-double in three of his past four games, creates headaches for Eagles opponents.
“He is a guard, he is a forward. His skill set allows him to be bumped out to the perimeter. Charlie is a matchup nightmare. He can work you on the block, he can take you outside. His handle (dribbling ability) has really came a long way since I have been here,” Issaquah first-year head coach Brad Valentine said. “He is a joy to coach for sure. We love having that type of a weapon on the team.”
Valentine is a fan of Dietiker’s mantra and mindset.
“His energy is so infectious. He does such a good job of communicating defensively and that sets the tone. Last night in particular against North Creek (73-63 win) he had a couple of plays where you could see that physicality coming out of him,” Valentine said before practice began on Jan. 9. “He is only a sophomore and is really young. Sometimes we (coaching staff) forget that he is only 16 years old. It is awesome how he has been progressing so far.”
Dietiker is a fan of Valentine’s coaching style.
“He is a great guy and he definitely knows what he is talking about. He loves his players and he loves this game,” Dietiker said of Valentine.
The Eagles, who have an overall record of 6-8, including a 4-3 record in 4A KingCo play, are determined to peak at the right time.
“Right now our goal is to win out in our (4A KingCo) conference. Our main goals are to beat Mount Si (currently first place in 4A KingCo) and get to the Tacoma Dome (site of the Class 4A state tournament),” Dietiker said.
Recently the Issaquah Reporter had an opportunity to ask Dietiker some questions about his life outside of the basketball court.
Issaquah Reporter: What is your favorite movie of all time?
Charlie Dietiker: The “Avengers: Infinity War.” I just love all of the “Avengers.”
IR: What is your biggest pet peeve?
CD: To have someone step on the back of my foot. It is really annoying to try to put your shoe back in and all of that stuff.
IR: Where do you see yourself in five years?
CD: Hopefully I’m at a Division-1 college playing basketball.
IR: What kind of music are you listening to the most in your car right now?
CD: Mostly rap and hip-hop. I listen to Ariana Grande.
IR: How many text messages do you send per day?
CD: I probably send about 200.
IR: What is your dream vacation spot?
CD: I love Maui. I love going there.
