We’re excited to highlight Cam Hiatt as KRKO’s Russell & Hill Male High School Student Athlete of the Month for December. The Wesco 3A MVP experienced a truly unique high school basketball journey, starting at King’s High School his first two years, playing for Western Reserve Academy his junior season and culminating his senior year back in his hometown with Edmonds-Woodway. We had the opportunity to interview Hiatt to discuss his evolution as a leader, the influence of both basketball and his community and what life beyond the court looks like in the near future. Photos courtesy of KRKO Radio.
SCSC: How did you first get into basketball and what hooked you on the sport?
Hiatt: I’ve been around basketball my whole life, thanks to my dad, who’s always been a fan of the game. But when I think back to when basketball truly became something important to me, I’d say it all started in second grade. That’s when I began playing competitive AAU basketball with the Seattle Stars program. I wasn’t a skilled basketball player yet. I was probably the most raw player on the team. I hardly played during my first season. But looking back, that’s where it all started for me. As for what hooked me on the sport, it’s hard to say exactly. I’ve played a lot of different sports: baseball, football and golf. But basketball was always the one I kept coming back to. I enjoyed the fast-paced environment and having a lot of creativity involved. The nuances and constant development of the game make it exciting too. My parents would even try to push me toward other sports, knowing how challenging basketball can be, especially when it comes to making it to the next level. But they always told me to do what I loved and having their support along the way made it special. They knew that if I really loved basketball, I’d push through the tough times, even when it felt like I didn’t want to be there.
SCSC: Who is your favorite player or team growing up?
Hiatt: When I think about the team that first got me fully invested in basketball, it was Gonzaga. They were the team I first started supporting and really began to understand the game through. I’ve been a huge Gonzaga fan my entire life. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, Gonzaga really represents what basketball means for me. It is close to home and exciting to watch. Over the years, there have been a lot of Gonzaga players that I’ve looked up to like Jalen Suggs and Corey Kispert. I was a huge fan of both of them. Corey, in particular, played at King’s, where I spent my freshman and sophomore years, so I got to watch him closely and learn a lot from his game. As for players, there were a few stars I looked up to. Being part of the Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant generation has played an influence on me for sure.
SCSC: What has your main motivator been and how do you maintain motivation to push forward?
Hiatt: Playing for Edmonds and representing this community has been incredibly meaningful to me. Looking back on my high school experience, it was special. To cap it off my senior year being back home was even more special. It gave me a deeper sense of purpose, motivating me to play for something bigger than myself. I’m a naturally competitive person, and my focus has always been on winning, not just putting up numbers but doing whatever it takes to win. Representing Edmonds, showing that our community has talent and isn’t defined by size, was important to me. Competing at the 3A level after playing in 1A at King’s was a significant step up, and I was proud to prove that we could compete on a larger stage. I also wanted to finish my high school career on a high note, giving everything I had to make the most of my final opportunity and go out the right way, after experiencing multiple state championships and a national championship at boarding school.
SCSC: How has the overall transition between basketball programs shaped you as an individual and help contribute to success?
Hiatt: My high school journey has been quite unique. Starting at King’s was a great experience where I felt supported and given the freedom to lead early on. As a sophomore, I became the go-to player, which taught me how to handle expectations and lead a team. My role wasn’t just about playing defense or rebounding, it was about scoring and helping my team win. That experience laid a strong foundation for my growth. Moving to Western Reserve Academy in Ohio was a major shift. The level of basketball was higher, and the environment was completely different. I wasn’t the primary player anymore, but our team came together, and we found success despite the challenges. It was tough being alone and pushing myself every day, but it forced me to grow independently both as a player and as a person. That growth has prepared me for the next chapter, and I’m grateful for the lessons learned that will help me navigate college life with confidence. Coming back home for my senior year allowed me to reconnect with my family and friends before heading off to college. I wanted to enjoy my last year back home and gain perspective on what really matters in life. Joining the Edmonds-Woodway program as a senior with a big name was challenging, but the community welcomed me and gave me a leadership role, which helped the team succeed.
SCSC: What is your proudest accomplishment this season?
Hiatt: Placing second in state is undoubtedly my proudest accomplishment, and while I’m incredibly proud of that achievement, I also recognize other aspects of this season that made it memorable. I’ve come to appreciate the recognition I’ve received, including being named the unanimous 3A WESCO MVP and being part of the All-State games. These honors are a big deal and not everyone gets the chance to earn them. But ultimately, what I’m most proud of is our team’s performance and how we represented Edmonds. Placing second in state was incredible and seeing how much it meant to my teammates made it even more special. While I’m grateful for the individual awards, the team’s success is what truly stands out as my greatest source of pride.
SCSC: As a senior, how did you embrace leadership, especially with younger players and teammates chasing success?
Hiatt: I was excited about the leadership opportunity this year, knowing it came with a lot of responsibility. My dad and I had discussed it before the season, and I understood that leading by example was key. From the start, I made it my goal to be the hardest worker in the gym, showing my teammates that success requires effort and the right mindset. With a new coach, Coach Gevin, coming in, it gave us a chance for a culture shift, and I wanted to help set the tone that we weren’t just going through the motions. We were in it to win. Holding my teammates accountable was important, but it was about being constructive, making sure everyone knew their purpose on the team. The best part was the group of guys we had. Some I knew, and others I didn’t, but they all bought into the leadership and intensity I brought. Their support made my senior year truly special, and I’m grateful for the role they played in our success.
SCSC: Do you have any pregame rituals?
Hiatt: I have a few rituals before games that help me stay calm and focused. As a country music fan, I listen to it to stay relaxed. Nothing too hyped because I find that getting too amped can mess with my motor skills. One key ritual is wearing wrist tape, something I’ve done for a while now. Before each game, I write a verse, a cross, and “AO1” (Audience of One) on the tape, which my girlfriend suggested. It helps ground me and reminds me of the bigger purpose behind what I’m doing. I also make sure to put my clothes on the same way each time, always doing the wrist tape last, to remind myself of my purpose. I believe routines are essential for getting mentally prepared, and for me, the wrist tape is the most unique and meaningful ritual, keeping me focused on bringing attention to God and Jesus Christ.
SCSC: Do you have any hobbies outside of basketball?
Hiatt: I’m really into music and play guitar, something that’s been a big part of my life since my mom encouraged all of us to learn an instrument. My two younger sisters play piano, and my dad’s love for alternative rock has influenced my taste. Music is something I enjoy outside of sports, along with my schoolwork. When I do have free time, I like to hang out with friends or watch sports, and music often fits into those moments, whether it’s during drives or just downtime.
SCSC: Having recently committed to Dartmouth, why do you feel this was the right fit for you?
Hiatt: Dartmouth was the right fit for me because it aligns with my values and goals, both academically and athletically. I’ve always dreamed of playing college basketball at a high academic institution, as education is extremely important to me. I wanted to set myself up for success not just in basketball, but in life after it’s over, and Dartmouth offered the perfect combination of both. From the moment I visited, Dartmouth felt perfect with its atmosphere and green spaces reminding me of home, where I’ve always felt a sense of belonging. I’m excited about the academic rigor and the opportunity to grow personally and socially, while also playing basketball at a high level. Competing in college basketball and having my games broadcasted is a surreal opportunity, and I look forward to seeing how far I can take my game in this exciting chapter of college basketball.
