Seconds left. Down by two. The ball found itself in the hands of senior Anthony Newlon, who lined up a three point attempt from the corner, sinking the bottom of the net as time expired. “It was very exciting and awesome. It seemed like it was meant to be,” spectator and friend Ben Wollenzien said of the shot. Senior Anthony Newlon has been a vital part of the SHS community and basketball team over his years at the high school, exemplified by his buzzer-beater three to beat Cheyenne Central earlier this season.
Down most of the game against a worthy opponent, the Broncs desperately needed a win to keep a strong record within their conference. Point guard Dylan Daniels dribbled the ball the length of the court and found Newlon in corner. Already having cashed two threes early in the game, with time expiring and defenders flying out on him, Newlon calmly shot and swished the buzzer beater, a defining moment for the team as well as himself, one of the greatest moments of Sheridan’s sports seasons. He described the shot as his best memory from the sport. “Making the shot was cool, pretty neat, and it was a adrenaline rush.”
Newlon has been playing basketball all his life, this year being his first on varsity. About Newlon’s personality and basketball skills, junior teammate Daniel Sessions said “He provides comedic relief for the team, and he always hits the big three point shots for us.” As a three-point specialist for the Broncs, Newlon has given the basketball team much offensive help with his deft touch from the outside, as well as a strong perimeter defender. Also, for a team lacking in experience, Newlon is one of only three seniors of the squad. He said of basketball that he learned “winners never quit, and quitters never win,” a motto that he hopes will help him strive to succeed in anything.
Besides basketball, Newlon ran the 200 meters, 400 meters, and relays in track up until his junior year. A well-rounded athlete, he also played football his freshman year. Outside of school he enjoys video games, particularly NBA Live 10, and watching television. Surprising to many, Newlon is also very talented at playing the piano. “I’ve been playing since third grade; I took lessons for about six years,” said Newlon, “but now it’s more of a hobby for fun.”
Senior Malik Grant describes Newlon as “full of torque. He’s got the softest hands and is the nicest guy I know.” Wollenzien echoed those words and said of Newlon that “he’s a really great friend and very loyal. Like a dog some might say.” Newlon possesses a personality that is well known around the school; he is always favorably described by peers and teachers. He describes himself as “electric” and “vivacious,” quick to joke and often carrying around a personable, charismatic attitude. He will take his talents to the University of Wyoming next fall, where he will study to become a pharmacist.
Newlon is the son of Jim and Kolleen Newlon.
