Leadership isn’t just a role for Mannford senior Max Moore—it’s a responsibility he embraces. Standing 6’3” and 200 pounds, Moore has built his athletic career on effort, toughness, and the desire to elevate everyone around him. “I want to be a leader for the young guys around me, and want to average a double-double,” he said.

The Mannford Pirates enter the new basketball season with a mix of veteran experience and developing talent, and Moore said he’s confident in what’s ahead. “It’s been good, we have some young guys who will be playing this year, but I’m really excited to see what we will do,” he said. “Seeing guys step up and be leaders” has been one of the most encouraging things he’s noticed so far.

Team goals are clear and simple: play with purpose every day. “We want to be the conference champs,” Moore said. “We have to practice like it and get better every day.” The Pirates’ depth and size could play a major role in that pursuit. “We have some pretty good size, and I think we can take advantage of that,” he said.

Moore plays power forward, where his physicality and court awareness help set the tone. “I try to see things we can take advantage of, but not do too much,” he said. His preparation reflects his commitment to consistency. “I try to eat and sleep really good during the season and make sure to stay hydrated and in good shape.”

When game time comes, Moore’s focus never wavers. “My mindset is all about getting the win,” he said. “I want to be known as the guy who would do anything for his teammates, and a good teammate.”

Basketball runs deep in his family, too. “Two of my first cousins are also on the team—Axl and Jackson Spess,” he said. That family bond adds an extra layer of motivation for the senior leader.

His favorite pregame song, ‘All of the Lights’ by Kanye West, keeps him hyped, and his favorite memory takes him back to where it all started: “When we won conference in eighth grade.”

“Football, basketball, baseball—I plan to play college football and coach,” Moore said.