Cushing High School senior Roman Tucker is more than just a standout athlete. He is a cornerstone for Tiger athletics, excelling in football, basketball, and baseball. As quarterback and safety on the football field, Roman brings a competitive edge rooted in hard work and deep community pride on and off the field.
For Tucker, last year’s early playoff exit still fuels his fire. “What motivates me is not going as far as we should’ve in the playoffs last year,” he says. That hunger has pushed him to spend countless hours training and refining his skills, with last season’s opportunity to start at quarterback standing out as a defining moment. “Getting to lead my team every game is something I’ll never forget,” he reflects.
Tucker’s intensity and passion are modeled after two of the greats, Tom Brady and Michael Jordan, but his deepest influences are closer to home. His dad, Trenton Tucker, and his girlfriend’s father, Adam Elliot, have made a huge impact on him. “They’ve shaped the man and athlete I’m becoming,” he says. He also credits art teacher Mrs. Myers for helping him become “the best version” of himself in every aspect of his life.
Game day means everything to Roman, especially matchups with early-season rivals like Berryhill, Perkins, and Bristow. “Those first three games feel personal, I like to beat them all,” he says. One of his favorite matchups? Going head-to-head with his teammate, Jordan Kersey when they face off in practice. “He plays on offense with me, but I love when he’s on defense against me.”
Off the field, Tucker is a proud member of the National Honor Society and draws coaching inspiration from Jon Gruden, admiring the intensity and knowledge he brings to the game.
Having played his entire athletic career in Cushing, Roman takes great pride in representing his community. “I’ve played here my whole career, and I know my community has my back. I love playing for the people who come out to support us, and I just hope they’re proud of me and how I play,” he says. Looking ahead, his goals are grounded in heart and humility: “I want to have a family and provide for them the best way I can.”
