Grove’s Dax Collins – Basketball Spotlight – Presented by Nu Taste Restaurant

Grove’s Dax Collins

By Mike Moguin

Grove High School sophomore Dax Collins is mostly proud of the memory of being coached by his dad. 

The best advice anyone has given also comes from his father. “He told me to work hard when no one’s watching,” said Collins, who also runs for the Grove track team.

Playing the court is fun, but lessons can also be learned from the game.

“Basketball has taught me patience; it makes me a better person by letting me trust things and be patient in everything I do,” Collins said. 

Successful players always have someone to motivate them, and Collins has one in a teammate.   

“Grant Alexander has left the biggest impression on me because he always encourages me, even when I’m not having my best game, and always pushes me in practice,” Collins said. 

The Arkansas Razorbacks are Collins’ favorite college basketball team, the Oklahoma City Thunder are his favorite NBA Team, and the 2024-25 league MVP is his favorite player.

“I look up to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander because he’s a good guy overall and doesn’t let the fame get to him,” Collins said. 

Other than athletics, Collins is involved in the math club and Character Counts at Grove.

Hobbies he enjoys are hunting, spending time with his family and friends, and watching sports.

His favorite teacher is Mrs. Guthridge, whom he happens to have this year. “She’s my favorite because she encourages us to be confident and never be too shy to speak our mind,” Collins said.

The opportunity of “getting to compete and win,” he said, is what he enjoys about representing Grove athletics.

“I want to give a shout-out to all my family and friends,” Collins said. 

“My family inspires me because they teach me new things and help me through everything I do,” Collins said.


Follow Collins on Instagram @daxcollins3