What’s in a name? The question is introduced to many high school students in English-Literature class, but in the case of Durango High School senior Orion Clay, the question is more than just a line from one of William Shakespeare’s famous works.
Clay is the son of an ardent student of astronomy and greek mythology, so being named after one of the most well-known constellations and a mythological hero comes with some lofty expectations – and he’s doing a good job of living up to those characteristics.
“My dad has always been into astronomy and Greek mythology so he and mom thought it would be cool to name me Orion,” said Clay, son of Amee and Daron Clay. “Orion was a hunter and he used a bow to hunt with his dogs. He was strong, fast, agile and a great warrior. I’d like to think that I have some of those traits.”
Orion the hunter is well known for his work ethic and Clay can relate to that. Though he’s been playing varsity basketball since his sophomore year, Clay began his freshman year on the Demons’ C team. With a growth spurt that pushed his height to 6-foot-3 and the drive to be as good as he could be, Durango coach Alan Batiste took notice.
“Orion is one of those guys who stays late after practice to get extra work in and pushes himself in the offseason,” said Batiste. “He worked hard to develop a well-rounded offensive game and he’s gone from just a good shooter to a guy who can score from anywhere. He’s a real difference maker for us because he can do a lot and he’s a good example for the other guys.”
In astronomy, Orion is one of the easiest constellations to find in the southern sky and stands out in the winter months, which happens to fall in line with basketball season. So far this year, Clay has been a star.
As Durango’s leading scorer, with an average of just over 16 points per game, it would be tough to watch the Demons play and fail to notice what Clay has been doing this winter.
The senior forward has hunted down the basket with regularity this season and has scored in double figures in every game. He doesn’t have a bow, but he possesses a variety of weapons at both ends of the floor. The versatile lefty leads the team in field goals made, points scored, field goals attempted, steals and is a close second in rebounding. His efforts have led the Demons to a 4-3 record to start the season and the tight-knit, senior-heavy group has big goals in their last run together.
“We’ve been eliminated in the second round of the playoffs the last two years, so we’re hoping to make it further this year,” Clay said. “After that, you never know what can happen.”
Orion also happens to be one of the brightest constellations in the night sky and, by the looks of his academic career at DHS, Clay is definitely a bright young man. The self-proclaimed history buff likes to study World War II and takes pride in his academic achievements. With a 4.0 grade point average and the desire to pursue an engineering degree, he’s got that trait wrapped up as well.
“He’s just a well-rounded kid,” said Batiste. “He’s consistent in the classroom and he’s consistent on the floor. He’s a big part of this program and we’re lucky to have a guy like that on our team.”
jfries@durangoherald.com
Behind the scenes
Who is your favorite athlete?: I know it’s a little strange, but Tom Brady.
What’s your nickname?: Guys call me a lot of stuff but “Big O” mostly.
What song is stuck in your head?: Adele’s “Hello” because my sister sings it all the time.
Who is your favorite superhero?: I like Ironman because he has all those cool gadgets and lasers and stuff.
Which teacher has had the greatest impact on you?: My math teacher Mrs. Haller. She’s always been helpful.
Do you have any hidden talents?: I’ve been practicing the piano every day lately. It’s something I’d like to get really good at.
Where is the worst place to travel for an away game?: Cortez. They have good fans who are always heckling the other team so it can be tough there.
What is your favorite childhood book?: I loved reading the Lord of the Rings series.
What is your favorite sports movie?: Hoosiers. I like the old stuff.
What is your favorite outdoor activity to do in Durango?: Fishing. Fly fishing, regular fishing, any kind of fishing, it doesn’t matter.
