The lone returning starter for the Eastlake Wolves basketball team during the 2015-16 season transformed his game during the off-season with a tireless work ethic.

The results have paid dividends for Wolves senior forward Ethan Thompson. Thompson, who is the Wolves second tallest listed player at 6-feet, 4-inches, thrives in the post and on the perimeter for his team. He said his favorite move in the paint is the jump hook.

“I like to do whatever is working. If I’m doing well on the inside I’m going to just stay on the inside and if I’m doing well and feeling good on the outside I can stay out there too. Which ever one I’m feeling better at I will just stick with that,” Thompson said. “It works well that way.”

The senior forward isn’t the most boisterous player in the world but enjoys being the elder-statesman on the roster.

“I would say I should be a little more vocal. I still get on my guys every once in awhile but I’m probably a more lead by example type of guy,” he said. “I love being able to lead my guys.”

Eastlake head coach Steve Kramer said Thompson has developed his game immensely over the past 18 months. When Kramer first saw Thompson play he didn’t venture far from the friendly confines of the paint.

It isn’t true anymore.

“He has worked so hard in the offseason on his ball-handling and perimeter shooting. He has become faster and more agile. He really wants to play at that next level and has developed a pretty good all-around game,” Kramer said. “He is a captain and does everything we ask him to do.”

The Wolves, who are currently struggling with an overall record of 3-7, are striving to reach their goal of clinching a berth in the playoffs in February.

“We just want to make it there and then go as far as we can,” Thompson said.

Recently the Issaquah/Sammamish Reporter had an opportunity to ask Thompson a few questions about his life away from the basketball court.

Issaquah Reporter: What is your favorite movie of all time?

Ethan Thompson: Star Wars 7: The Force Awakens.

IR: What is your biggest pet peeve?

ET: When stupid people think they are smart. That sounds really petty but it’s my biggest pet peeve.

IR: What is your favorite eatery in Sammamish?

ET: Mod Pizza. You can make your favorite pizza in the world there.

IR: What is something unique about you that nobody would know?

ET: I was an all-state singer as a middle schooler. My family always sings. It is what our family does. I love to do it.

IR: How many text messages do you send per day?

ET: I probably send 50 per day.

IR: Who was your idol growing up?

ET: Lebron James. He is the greatest basketball player of all time and he is a super cool guy too.