The Mount Dora Christian Academy basketball team (MDCA) is off to a stellar 9-3 start this season, and much of that success can be attributed to the outstanding play of senior forward DeAndre’ Curate. Averaging 19.3 points per game and 7.3 rebounds per game, DeAndre’ has emerged as a key player for the Eagles, leading by example on the court and off.

Born with a love for basketball, DeAndre’s journey began when he was just 6 years old, and his early exposure to the game came through his family.

“My brother CorVondre Curate, my Grandfather, and my mom all played big roles in getting me involved,” he says. “My brother especially pushed me to keep going.”

DeAndre’ credits his mother Lekeithia, who played basketball at Jones High School, as his biggest role model.

“She’s my backbone,” DeAndre’ says. “She pushes me every day towards my dreams. Everything I do, I do to make her proud.”

His mother’s influence, along with the encouragement from his grandfather, has shaped him into a dedicated athlete and an even more determined person.

“I always remember my grandpa being my first coach,” he says. “He taught me to push myself in everything I do. That advice sticks with me every day, both on and off the court.” The wisdom passed down through generations has given DeAndre’ the mindset to face adversity.

Basketball has taught DeAndre’ more than just how to score points or grab rebounds. It’s shaped his approach to life.

“Basketball has taught me problem-solving and accountability,” he says. “You can’t just blame others when things go wrong. You have to look at yourself and find ways to improve.”

And it’s not just about the game; it’s about the camaraderie.

“The team bonding at MDCA is my favorite memory,” says DeAndre’. “There’s something special about playing alongside teammates who feel like family.”

For DeAndre’, MDCA represents much more than just a basketball team.

“MDCA is a big FAMILY,” he says. “From the first day I stepped on this campus, I felt at home. The support system here is incredible.”

That sense of belonging is part of what has makes this season so special for him. With his leadership, MDCA has positioned itself as one of the top teams in the district, and DeAndre’ is determined to help them reach even greater heights.

Every athlete faces adversity, and DeAndre’ is no exception.

“The toughest challenge I’ve overcome was the situation at my last school,” he shared. “It was tough to stay focused, but I kept my head up. God opened the door for me to come to MDCA, and I’m thankful for it.”

DeAndre’s faith has been an integral part of his journey.

“I keep God first in everything I do,” he says. “That’s the most important advice I would give to young kids looking up to me.”

Looking ahead, DeAndre’ has his sights set on continuing his basketball career in college.

“I want to play basketball at a four-year university while pursuing a degree in Sports Medicine and Computer Engineering,” he says

In addition to his athletic and academic goals, DeAndre’ also makes time to give back to his community.

“I volunteer at my mom’s catering business, at church, and with youth basketball camps at MDCA,” he says.

DeAndre’ says his goals for the remainder of the season are to finish with straight A’s in the classroom and help lead MDCA to a state championship.

When asked what basketball means to him, DeAndre’ responded powerfully.

“Basketball means the world to me,” he says. “I didn’t want to play when I was younger, but with the encouragement from my family, I stuck with it. It helps me be the best version of myself and always picks me up in every situation.”

Outside of basketball, DeAndre’ enjoys playing 2K Basketball, reading books, and spending time with his family. He also competes in track and field in the spring.

One of the values that keeps DeAndre’ going is his favorite Bible verse, Jeremiah 29:11: “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.’”

This verse, shared with him by his mom, has stuck with him over the years and continues to guide him as he navigates both basketball and life.

Keep a close eye on this young man as the season continues. MDCA has been impressive this season with DeAndre’s teammates junior TJ McCormick, senior Eli Middleton and freshman Drew Stratford, among others who’ve helped power the Bulldogs offense.

Photos provided.