Most high school athletes try to end their high school careers on a high note. That is exactly what senior boys basketball player Nate Wesling did.
Wesling is the second-highest scorer in Baldwin boys basketball history, eclipsing over 1,000 career points this past season. Along with the scoring milestone, Wesling led the Highlanders to their first section championship since 1986.
All of these accomplishments have led to Wesling being named the Purbalite Male Athlete of the Year.
Wesling scored his 1,000th point on Dec. 28 in the fourth quarter of a close victory against Knoch.
“Hitting 1,000 means a lot to me. As soon as the shot went in, it felt like all the weight on my shoulders disappeared,” Wesling said. “It’s pretty cool that anytime I walk into our gym, I’ll see my name high on that banner.”
Another of Wesling’s favorite basketball memories was leading the boys basketball team to their first section championship since 1986 – winning section player of the year in the process.
“Winning the first section championship in 39 years and watching the program become successful are definitely my favorite memories,” Wesling said.
Another of Wesling’s favorite moments was his performance against Mt. Lebanon in the WPIAL semifinals in his junior year.
“My favorite in-game moment was shooting 80 percent with 25 points and making the last two free throws to seal the game, taking us to the WPIAL championship,” Wesling said.
Years before all the high school success, Wesling was watching his dad play basketball in men’s leagues games.
“He used to bring me to all of his games and practices since I was in a diaper,” Wesling said. “He has also mentored me throughout my basketball career by keeping my head straight and motivating me to be the best player I can be.”
Senior basketball player Jason Cimador said Wesling’s work ethic led to his successful high school career.
“Nate’s worth ethic was up there with the best of them. He was always showing up and getting shots early and also putting in extra work during the season and offseason,” Cimador said. “What made him such a successful player was his devotion to the game but also his drive to learn and continue to grow.”
Baldwin Athletic Director Tony Cherico said Wesling has been a big influence on the basketball program.
“Nate had a huge impact on the program,” Cherico said. “He was a key part in changing the culture, and you could always depend on him to have a good game.”
Wesling took pride in being a captain and a leader of the team.
“I showed my leadership by keeping everyone involved. I also lead by example, showing what it takes to be a good leader,” Wesling said.
Wesling plans to continue his athletic career into college.
“I plan on playing basketball at Chatham and studying business,” Wesling said.
