PASADENA, Texas – Charles Denham, a senior at Pasadena Memorial High School, is excelling in more ways than one. With an acceptance letter from Arizona State University in hand and a successful role as a freelance journalist for the Houston Rockets, Denham is already making significant waves in the sports journalism field.

From his early days at Pasadena Memorial, Denham has shown exceptional storytelling talent and a deep love for basketball. Determined to become the best writer in the NBA, Denham’s journey from high school to professional sports journalism is a testament to his dedication and passion for his craft. 

"I want to be the best writer I can be for an NBA team," Denham shared. "Whether it's writing for the NBA, a team, The Athletic or ESPN, I know I can put in the work to get there." 

Denham's journey into sports media began with a podcast he hosted with his friend, discussing topics ranging from the best basketball teams, top players, and much more in the basketball world. 

What started as a hobby with a friend would evolve into something more serious as the senior received the chance to interview past players and retired sports reporters.

From then on, his passion ignited as he realized his talent didn't have to stop there. 

After an interview with a Rockets writer, Denham's interest expanded beyond podcasting, and he wanted to grow in other ways. Following a simple conversation, Denham asked, "Is there any way I could connect with your boss?" The writer agreed, and from that point on, a pivotal connection was formed.

Filled with knowledge and enthusiasm, the Houston Rockets representative encouraged Denham to start writing stories about the Rockets Organization.

After six months of writing for the Rockets, he was offered a full-time position with the organization in the summer of 2024. This impactful achievement validated his passion and started a journey full of opportunities. 

Balancing school and writing have been a challenge, but Denham has found a way to manage both. "First and foremost, school comes first," he said. "After I get home from basketball practice, I’ll take a small nap, but then I get to writing and get updates on games. I try not to put too much stress on myself, but enough to get the job done."

Denham’s ambition is clear. His dreams consist of covering NBA Finals, interviewing the top players, and making a name for himself in the competitive field of sports journalism. 

His dedication is evident in his current workload, writing multiple articles per week on top of his schoolwork. 

Next fall Denham will be preparing to start his undergraduate degree in journalism as a Sun Devil. 

Arizona State's renowned journalism program offers a unique "teaching hospital" model that provides hands-on training in the field of journalism. ASU creates an environment where students can learn and grow under the direct supervision of top professional journalists, preparing them for the digital media world of today and tomorrow.

Senior Denham’s goal is to leverage the opportunities at ASU to become a top-tier sports journalist, capable of covering major events and interviewing the biggest names on campus and beyond.

Reflecting on his journey, his passion is evident. As he stated, "I love to write, so it's not something that I shy away from. The more I do it, the easier it comes to me."

When asked how he felt about moving so far away for school he responded along the lines of with his parents' support home is never too far. 

ASU is the perfect environment for Denham to refine his skills, gain valuable experience, and build a network within the industry. "My goal is to write, so whoever gives me an opportunity, I’ll give it my all," Denham stated.

With his eyes set on the future, Denham is a name to watch in the world of sports media. His journey is just beginning, but his determination ensures that he is well on his way to achieving his dreams.