The Jewish Link of New Jersey and Gotham Burger would like to recognize 13-year-old Avery Stepner as this week’s sportstar of the week. Stepner, a Yeshivat Noam eighth grader, is coming off an amazing three years of YMSSA basketball for the Noam Knights. During this period Noam has won the division each season and made it to the league championship twice, taking home the chip last season. Avery was also a driving force behind the Team Deb El Foods MGBL championship team. A strong force all season, he made his mark by outscoring his opponent 13-10 in the first quarter of the championship game, earning him MVP honors.

Avery, congratulations on another amazing season. Who is your role model and why?

My older brother Jack, because he sets a great example for me by being a great basketball player and nice person.

What is your greatest sports accomplishment?

Winning the championship in MGBL this year and scoring 13 points in the first five minutes of the game and 26 for the game, earning the MVP.

Who is your favorite professional athlete and why?

Kobe Bryant, because of his work ethic, competitive spirit and always believing in himself.

What is your pregame routine?

I shoot around in my backyard before going to the game and once I’m there I just try to have fun by taking crazy shots.

What is your earliest sport memory?

When I was seven years old my father took me to a Knicks vs Bulls game and I remember making a poster to try to get on TV.

What is your favorite sports memory?

Watching Kobe Bryant score 60 points in his final game of his career.

What is your favorite thing to do when you are not playing sports?

I love watching all sports and hanging out with my friends.

What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?

I get to have burgers and fries from Gotham Burger!

The Gotham Burger Sportstar of the Week will receive a $10 gift certificate to Gotham Burger. Please send nominees for next week’s Gotham Burger Sportstar of the Week to [email protected].