VYPE: You rushed for over 2,100 yards on the gridiron this season. Was football always your first sport?

Ma’lek Murphy: No. Basketball was always my first sport. I started playing football around the age 7.

VYPE: You’ve had an exceptional year on the court, too. Is there any chance we could see you playing multiple sports at East Central?

MM: I think I’m just going to stick to football at East Central. Though things could change, as of right now, I will just be playing football.

VYPE: Would you encourage younger athletes to play year-round sports? What advice would you give them?

MM: Most definitely. It keeps you in shape around the year without you realizing it. Some advice I would say for younger athletes is to stay on track and don’t give up

VYPE: Which athletic tool or ability is your best? How do you use it?

MM: My strength. I use it a lot in football running through people and throwing them off of me, and in basketball, I use it to take advantage of driving in on people or small guards in the post.

VYPE: What will we see from you on the track this spring? Do you have unfinished business there?

MM: You will definitely see a lot of good things in the 4×1 relay. Last year we got third at state in a close race, but this year, I think we’ll be able to pull it off with two returning sprinters, including myself.

VYPE: Which athletes, professional or amateur, do you look up to the most?

MM: My cousin, Wayne Jones, who graduated from Owasso and is currently now playing safety at the University of Charlotte.

VYPE: Which team or athlete that you’ve played against, in any sport, do you respect the most?

MM: (Weatherford’s) CJ Nickson. He’s a great athlete that plays without having to say a word to you. Anytime we play each other in football or basketball, we’re always having a good time.

VYPE: What question do you wish reporters asked more?MM: Probably my favorite food or drink. . . Food, fries, and drink, either pineapple juice or orange juice.