Following his team’s loss in the quarterfinals of the Colorado High School Activities Association’s 4A State Football Playoffs, Durango High School senior three-sport athlete Lucas Baken realized something very important.
It had nothing to do with the outcome of the game. The 49-21 loss to Loveland was a tough way to end the best Demons season in recent memory, but winning and losing isn’t what stuck in Baken’s mind.
“It was tough loss, but I learned a lot from it,” Baken said in a phone interview with The Durango Herald. “Most importantly, we learned not to take any of these moments for granted rest of this year because that will come to an end too.”
Baken was dominant at the wide receiver position in his senior season. His 15 touchdown receptions were four better than anyone in CHSAA’s Class 4A. He was 10th in receiving yards with 795 and his 45 receptions were 12th.
As a clear standout at his position, he was named to the CHSAA All-State Second Team.
Baken has made the transition from the gridiron to the hardwood successfully and he credits longtime friends and teammates in both sports, Lawrence Mayberry and Terrence Trujillo, for making the transition easier.
“I’ve been playing with those guys since fourth grade and we know how to push each other by now,” said Baken, son of Dante and Jessica Baken. “When I say ‘take nothing for granted’ I mean the relationships and the friendships we’ve built as teammates and friends.”
After a much-needed holiday break, a refreshed Baken has been lights out in the basketball team’s two games. The Demons guard had four steals during a 20-2 run against Pagosa Springs that led to an easy Durango win.
A week later against Piedra Vista, Baken led a furious comeback with 17 second half points. He finished with a season-high 23 points in the 72-55 victory.
“Lucas is a kid that doesn’t lack confidence,” said Durango High School head basketball Alan Batiste in a phone interview with The Durango Herald. “He’s a laid back, quiet and respectful young man and when he’s on the court, he’s a game changer.”
Baken will run on the Demons’ track and field squad in the spring and hopes to play football at the next level. However, he’s taking his time and making the most of his final year at DHS.
“I have some decisions to make, but that can wait for now,” he said. “I love playing for Durango High School. I’m really just trying to enjoy the rest of my time here with the guys I grew up with. That’s what’s important.”
jfries@durangoherald.com
Behind the scenes
Who is your favorite athlete?: Nate Robinson
Where is the toughest place to play a road game?: Montrose because they usually have good teams and a great atmosphere.
Who is your celebrity crush?: Ariana Grande
What is your favorite subject in school?: Physics. It comes easy to me.
Which teacher has had a great impact on you over the years?: Billy Bowker. I have a lot of respect for him and he taught me a lot.
What is your favorite sports movie?: Coach Carter
Who is your favorite superhero?: Spiderman. He’s just way cooler than Batman.
What place would you like to visit when you get a chance?: I was born in Seattle and I love going back to visit. Europe would be nice to see too.
What is your favorite pro sports team?: You picked a bad time to ask about this, but, the Seattle Seahawks.
What is your all-time favorite video game?: The Zombies part of Call of Duty.
