Alex Poythress is playing at the Nike EYBL in Los Angeles this weekend. BDN Photo
BDN Premium has Andrew Slater and Varand Khacadouri covering the Nike EYBL event in Los Angeles this weekend and their reports are coming in via the message board and our twitter site. We'll have player interviews coming this week and much more including some members take on the prospects.
In fact, one of our knowledgeable members, Caleb has shared his early take on the kids and here they are while we await more reports from California.
Here are some thoughts and comments from what I saw this weekend -
Julius Randle: From what I saw he's the player I most like from the class of 2013. He looks to be a legit 6'-9" from looking at him. He is strong with the basketball and aggressive. Likes to use the glass alot when shooting in and around the paint. He has a good feel for the game and attacks the basket hard. He handles the ball well...but would be a serious matchup problem at the four. He was double teamed a lot by defenses yet still scored strong when I watched. When you watch him play it's hard to believe he is class of 2013! Very mature game.
Jabari Parker: Really [private] good all around player. Very smooth. Understands the game at a high level. Not super quick or fast but he is athletic. Fundamentally sound...gets team- mates involved well. Not as big or strong as Randle...more of a 3/2. His game reminds me of a slightly less explosive Grant Hill. I think with added strength he will be a special player. Very un-selfish. He is a very pleasant kid. Duke would be fortunate to get Jabari.
Nerlen Noels: I hope that Duke really goes after this kid. He blocks shots like he is on a pogo stick! He can go up down and then back up again really quick. I saw him block shots with both right and left hand. He can block jump-shots! He's just so long and makes you change your shot when driving to the hoop. On offense he plays within himself and doesn't force much. With time his offensive game will improve. He is not a liability at all on offense and he does display some touch around the basket. He does need some added strength. He will be a wiry, strong type of athlete.
Tony Parker: I like Tony. I hope Duke gets him. He really grew on me this weekend. Varand described his game well. He has good footwork...especially this strong low post spin move that he uses well to score with. He's definitely a power forward/college center. He seems to be a legitimate 6-8+ but the days of 270lbs are over. Some are saying he hasn't been playing well of late...if that is the case, he may be adjusting to playing at a lighter weight. Regardless, he played well this weekend. He plays best when he's getting the ball. He is a good kid...I repeat he is a good kid.
Alex Poythress: Effortless leaper. Long and athletic. Offensively he is a 4/3... defensively he could probably guard the 2 and 3 very effectively. Could develop into a passing lane nightmare. He had a two handed dunk where he literally glided through the air without much effort and with plenty of hang time. It would be hard not to take this kid if he wanted to commit. Seems to be tight with Tony Parker. Another really good kid.
Theo Pinson: Very gifted but young. When it's all said and done he'll be a great one. Displayed a nice shooting touch out to 3. His handle is good. He can dribble with both hands. He was active around the basket at times but definitely needs more strength to finish inside. The game I saw him play was against Houston Hoops, (Rasheed's team). It was probably a little tough for Theo to shine against such a talented trio of elite level Houston Hoop guards...led by Rasheed. Theo's dad is really cool and level headed. He mentioned that the experience of playing in such a high level game would only help Theo get better. Lots of up-side.
Rodney Purvis: I think we're all fairly familiar with Rodney's game. He is strong and really has the look of a player. Very confident player and he traded baskets with Rasheed a couple of times. I think Varand mentioned that he deferred a little too much during crunch time against Houston Hoops but he will be big time. He is a legit 6-3 and he can take it to the hole strong. After the game against Houston Hoops which was easily the best and most competitive game that I saw, Rodney was very nice and forthcoming with answering questions and picture taking. I would really like to land him.
Rasheed Suilamon: He has the tools to be great. In what was probably the best game of the weekend (Houston Hoops vs. CP3) he was the best player. His handle is legit. He can lose a defender with his cross-over and changing of speeds. Once he gets past his defender he attacks the basket hard. With added strength he will finish more consistently. He can knock down the deep three or pull up for his jumper off the dribble. He's an energy player who can defend well. His personality is magnetic...I really like him and predict he will be one of my all-time favorite's when he leaves Duke. He will represent Duke very well.
Thanks again to Andrew and Varand for a great weekend! [/private]
Childhood years can be a tumultuous time for a lot of kids. At 3, Peter Jok lost his father to violence in war-ravaged Sudan. At nine, his mother ultimately moved the family to Des Moines, Iowa to begin a new life. Two years later, the young man put away his soccer ball and began playing basketball. At a reported 6'6," he's now successfully playing the sport that has helped several of his relatives achieve a college education and, in two instances (Manute Bol and Luol Deng), an NBA career.
After a season in which he didn't enjoy his prior explosiveness, Jok underwent an MRI, which revealed a torn patellar tendon. In June, he's expecting to undergo surgery to repair it and the rehab will take several months. Recently, Jok and his guardian Mike Dixon's son, Pete, transferred high schools from Roosevelt HS in Des Moines to Valley HS in West Des Moines, where he will be coached by former Iowa guard, Jeff Horner. On the AAU circuit, the sophomore Jok is averaging 8 points and 4 rebounds per game in limited action for the All-Iowa Attack, who are 7-3 in Nike's EYBL.
His older brother, Dau, was a freshman guard at the University of Pennsylvania this past season and is currently on a trip that will take him through Rwanda and Southern Sudan, distributing soccer and basketballs to young girls and boys. Dau Jok, who set up a foundation in their slain father's name, Dut Jok, is looking to ultimately empower the Southern Sudanese youth through athletics and education.
Recently, the more laconic Peter Jok spoke with Blue Devil Nation.
How do you feel you've played so far over this AAU season? [private]
Well, I tore my patellar tendon. So, I'm really not supposed to be playing. I'm just waiting to have surgery.
And when are you scheduled to have surgery?
June. Well, the middle of June.
How long will it take you to recover from that?
Several months.
Wow, I'm sorry to hear that, but, hopefully, you'll feel a lot better afterwards.
Yeah, I hope so.
In terms of a position, what do you view yourself as, long-term?
Probably, realistically, as a small forward.
For those that haven't had an opportunity to see you yet, can you describe your game for the audience?
Well, I just like to play inside-out and my weakness, right now, is attacking the basket. I feel like I have weak knees. Until I get my strength back, I don't see any chance of it improving.
When did the injury occur or was it a gradual issue?
It happened last year in a Nike camp. I played through the season, but, when I finally got an MRI, they said I must've torn my patellar tendon.
I can't believe you could play at this level with that issue.
Yeah, I know. (laughs)
In terms of your strengths, what do you feel are some of them?
On the court?
Yes, I'm sorry. On the court..
Probably my shot. My mid-range has gotten a lot better. I feel a lot more comfortable shooting and hitting it.
Which teams are after you right now?
Yeah, but I have a guardian take care of that. He handles all of that and so I don't have to think about that.
Sure. Did you have a favorite team growing up?
No, not really. I watched a lot of Oklahoma growing up because my cousin was on the team.
Which cousin was that?
Oh, Longar Longar.
Sure.
Yeah, I used to watch him play.
Now, is it true that you're related to both Manute Bol and Luol Deng as well?
Yeah, it's true. When we first came here, I remember I spoke to Manute Bol at a family reunion.
In Iowa or elsewhere?
No, in Kansas actually. We have a lot of family there. So, yeah, he was very encouraging.
I know your older brother was a freshman this year at Penn.
Yeah, he is.
Have you ever spoken with Luol Deng?
No, but my older brother has. I don't really, like, know him that well.
Is there a player that you try to model your game after?
Kevin Durant.
A very skilled forward. Maybe we can touch on your journey from Sudan to ultimately Iowa. It's a unique story… coming out of a war ravaged area to Des Moines.
Oh, well, I came here when I was nine so I don't really remember much.
Perhaps, that's for the best.
Yeah, I guess and my mom doesn't really like to talk about it that much.
Sure, nevertheless, you arrived in 2003.
Yeah, exactly, I arrived in '03 and I started playing in '05. I actually used to play a lot of soccer.
Now, do you still play that in the fall?
No, not anymore.
Concentrating on basketball?
Yeah, exactly, concentrating.
Who will you turn to for guidance whenever you do decide?
Longar Longar, my big brother, and then another cousin named Jok Jok…and then my uncles. They all look after me and guide me in life.
Are your uncles in Kansas?
My main uncle is in Minnesota and then my guardian…he guides me too.
His name's Mike Nixon.
Yes, Mike Nixon.
Although it'll only be until June, what are you hoping to accomplish this summer?
Not much. Just trying to wait until this knee gets healed.
Will you be able to work on your upper-body when you're in rehab?
Yes, when I get to rehab, I will.
So, it won't be wasted time?
Yeah, hopefully not.
What will you be looking for ideally in the program that you ultimately decide upon?
Just a team that runs and a good coaching staff.
So, you prefer an up-tempo system.
Yeah, definitely.
You've come a long way already and your brother's in Philadelphia, but will distance be a factor for you?
I really don't know. I'm not sure.
Do you have a time when you'd like to decide by?
To be honest, I'm not really thinking at all about recruiting.
What are some of your outside interests, outside of school and basketball?
I like hanging out with my girl.
Well, that's a first, but probably a good use of your time.
(laughs)
Now, does she play too?
Yeah, she played a little bit at my old school.
I know that's a touchy issue in your area and, perhaps, you'd rather not talk about it, but was it difficult for you to leave your prior school in the middle of the year?
Yeah, it was difficult, but…I don't know.
In doing my research, I was surprised at how much discussion or contention there was over you leaving your prior school and joining a new one. Were you surprised by that?
Yeah, I tried not to pay too much attention to it at the time.
Well, good luck at the new school. Was transferring a big deal to you?
Yeah, no, I was surprised by all of that.
Is it difficult for you to be separated from your mother so often?
Yeah, well, you get used to it. She came back last night. She goes back and forth a lot.
I've been there many times, but how did you land in Des Moines or the greater Des Moines area, of all places?
My grandma was there.
Oh, your grandmother. That makes sense.
Yeah, she was living there.
What has your brother, Dau (freshman at Penn), told you so far about college basketball and the adjustments that he's had to make, as he's stepped up in competition? Has he offered you advice?
He's talked about the need to tighten your ball-handling as much as possible and concentrate on defense a lot more in high school. Play as hard on that end as you can.
Do you guys plan on playing with or against each other this summer?
No, but we used to play all of the time when he was in high school.
Are you a good student as well? I figure, with your brother at Penn, you've got to be a pretty good student.
Oh, yeah, my mom's all about that. My mother would never let me or my brothers get away without studying or putting in a good effort. She values an education.
That's good to hear.Do you have a favorite NBA team?
Oh, the Lakers. The Lakers are my team. I love Kobe Bryant.
You mentioned before that Duke had called your house recently.
Yeah, they called my guardian.
Do you know which coach called?
No, I have no idea.
Would you be interested in them, if they decided to pursue you? In Duke?
Sure, I would.
What's your current height and weight? What height are you projected to be?
They say I'l be somewhere between 6'8 and 6'10." I currently 6'6" and 194.
What would you like to weigh by next high school season? You mentioned before that you were planning on working on your upper-body while you're rehabbing.
Yeah, I'd like to weigh somewhere between 210 and 215 by the start of the season.
How are you going to try to keep the mid-range and three-point shot that you've been working on, while going through all of that rehab?
They said, after a couple of months, that I'll be able to shoot on it. It shouldn't hurt my shot that bad.
I would think this would be the case, but has it dramatically affected your leaping ability?
Oh, yeah, it has. It's been terrible.
Yeah, in the past, I though you were frankly more explosive than you've demonstrated recently, but your shot is a lot more consistent.
Yeah, I was a lot more explosive
Hopefully, after this surgery, we'll see you skying through the air again.
Yeah, I hope so.
Do you feel that you're a better a shooter as well now?
Yeah, I think so.
In terms of next year in high school, what are you hoping to accomplish?
Win the state. Last year, we got knocked out way too early, but, next year, we should be really good.
DURHAM - New Duke assistant coach Jeff Capel addressed the local media today on the campus of Duke University. The former Oklahoma and Virginia Commonwealth coach brings a lot of experience to the basketball staff and after a whirlwind move into temporary housing he is already settling in to his duties, namely the recruiting trail.
"Life can only be understood backwards," were words Capels Grandmother shared with him and that advice now makes sense to the former Blue Devil player.
"Control what you can control, it's a tough profession but a rewarding one," said Capel, who continued, "It was hard, difficult and I didn't like it but it was whats supposed to happen," in reference to his release at Oklahoma.
The Sooners loss is the Blue Devils gain. Capel brings a new set of eyes to the program and the fact he has had such experience on the sidelines will certainly help him with his new gig.
"Duke helped prepare me for life, not just coach and the program but Duke," said the former Fayetteville native. While at Duke Capel played for the national championship, something he points to as the highlight of his career along with a steller game against Purdue in the regional finals which helped the Devils advance.
When asked how he could help the program, Capel stated, "I don't know right now. Maybe I can understand some things during a day better than some of the other guys," referring to his head coaching experience.
Capel joins former teammates and friends Chris Collins, Steve Wojociechowski and Nate James at Duke, giving him a comfort level from day one. "Chris and Wojo are trained to be head coaches and they will be successful when they head out. I have been a coach and I thou\ght I was really go four great years at VCU. I wanted to get it back going. When I took the OU job it was under turmoil which may have chosen to forget."
And while there are some familiarities coming back to Duke, Capel sees changes since his playing days which ended in 1997. "It's different. I would periodically visit campus but not for an extended length of time. When I walked into Cameron I didn't know the seats were now blue. But while the campus is different, the expectations for excellence are the same."
When asked about the progression of his hiring, Capel said he was fired on a Monday in Norman, flew back Tuesday and Wednesday he decided to go by the Duke campus just to say hello. During that visit he talked with Coach K briefly where he was asked of his interest in a created special assistant slot.
Capel wanted to check his options and he took a look at some head coaching vacancies and even looked into a chance to become a TV analyst.
Krzyzewski later contacted Capel again saying the best way to utilize his talents at Duke was to offer him a spot as an assistant coach. It didn't take long for Capel to accept the position. "It was a no brainer," said Capel. "I have trusted the man since I was 16 years old and that trust has never changed."
Capel officially started his duties last Friday and he worked with a returnee individually this morning. He has already started to get accustomed with the players Duke is recruiting as well and he will be out on the road in July.
"One thing about Coach is he is always willing to change and adapt to help a team become the best they can be. His objective is what is best for Duke and that will be my mission here to help Duke be the best it can be."
Houston Hoops standout, Rasheed Sulaimon - BDN Photo, Mark Watson
In February, junior 6'3" Rasheed Sulaimon became the second commitment for Duke in the 2012 class. The Houston-area product helped lead his Strake Jesuit squad to a 26-4 record, before getting upset by one point to Lamar in the second round of the Texas playoffs. For the season, the high-scoring guard with an improving defensive reputation averaged over twenty-one points, five rebounds, three assists, and two steals for the Crusaders.
An articulate, personable and religious young man, Sulaimon has tried to help recruit Shabazz Muhammad and Tony Parker to the Blue Devils and is friendly with Rodney Purvis. Last year, his young Houston Hoops team struggled in Nike's inaugural EYBL . This year, Sulaimon, has helped lead his Houston Hoops squad to a 9-1 record and averaged thirteen points through the first ten games played at Boo Williams and in Dallas.
Recently, he spoke with Blue Devil Nation.
How do you feel you've played so far?
I feel I've played pretty well. We've had some pretty close games, but our team has persevered. We won and 3-1 right now here, so, overall, it's been a good weekend.
You guys went undefeated at Boo Williams.
Yeah, yeah.
Can you compare this with last year where you struggled a bit last year because you guys were so young?
You know, last year, we were young. We were coming into something that was new and, you know, we kind of struggled. We kind of relied on our talent. We didn't play as a team and our work kind of suffered because of that. This year, we knew what we were going into it, prepared better, playing like a team. We're playing great defense and the record is showing it.
Did the experience of being thrown into the fire, so to speak, pay a lot of dividends for you this year?
Yeah, I think so. I think it helped us grow and mature faster than even we wanted to. So, you know, putting us in that situation made us grow a lot faster.
Rasheed talks about recruiting for Duke, his improved defense and much more in the rest of this interview. This is the fouth interview in four days, so join BDN Premium for full site access and then take a look at what Nerlens Noel, Juilus Randle and Theo Pinson had to say. Then talk about the latest on the BDN Premium message board. Check out BDN Premium, you'll be glad you did! We dare to compare our Duke-centric experience with any other service. [private]
Can you talk about what you felt last year versus what you're feeling right now?
Last year, you know, it was kind of frustrating.
Was it was mentally difficult?
Yeah, yeah, but you know this year we're trying not to get down on ourselves and, you know, we unfortunately just had our first loss.
Yeah, I was there. I thought I was a curse. I need to get out of here.
(laughs) No, no. We've just got to keep going out there and proving it and trusting ourselves.
You guys, especially the three of you, have really good chemistry out there.
Yeah, yeah, we do.
Individually, what are you hoping to accomplish this summer?
I'm just trying to work on getting stronger and getting quicker.
Your defense is a lot stronger this year.
Yeah, yeah, that's one thing I really strive for. I've been trying to work on my lateral quickness and everything like that. You know, at Duke, we really have to focus on defense. That's one thing I'm really trying to improve on. Just trying to get prepared as best I can.
In terms of your body, what are you trying to work on this summer? You're obviously in great shape, but are you trying to get bigger? Are you trying to get leaner? You mentioned the lateral quickness.
Yeah, yeah, I'm just trying to get quicker and stronger and, like you said, not only just putting on more weight, but trying to get stronger.
Lean muscle?
Yeah, exactly. Lean muscle. That's one thing I'm really focused on right now.
In terms of shooting, where do you feel comfortable right now?
I feel pretty comfortable doing everything..off-the-dribble, off-the-catch. I just try to keep working on that and stay in the gym.
You're working on your mid-range?
Yeah, my mid-range and I just continue to stay in tune with that.
What has the staff asked you to work on, if anything?
Basically, the same things we've been talking about. You know, continue to get stronger, continue to get quicker, continue to play hard on both ends. Just stay in tune and continue to work out.
Now for next year, in high school, what are your goals for next season? Maybe making the McDonald's All-American game and winning a state title? What are some things?
Yeah, those are some really high goals that I'm trying. You know, like you said, the All-American games and, I think, most importantly, from a team aspect, I want to win a state championship.
How did you guys finish up this year?
This year, we finished #1 in the Houston 5A, but, you know, we kind of got upset in the second round.
Who was the bad guy?
Oh, you know, Lamar High School. We were ranked ahead of them and they ended up getting us by one, so that was disappointing. But you know, I think that will help us this year. We'll learn from that experience and we'll go further next year.
In the past, you went to school with the Harrison twins, Andrew and Aaron. Do you guys still have a relationship?
Oh, yeah, yeah. We're still pretty cool. We see each other at AAU events. Yeah, yeah.
In terms of recruiting for Duke, Quinn was saying he was going after Shabazz Muhammad, Alex Murphy, and Tony Parker. Who are you going after, if anybody?
(laughs) Yeah, I'm going after Shabazz and Tony Parker, too. It's really those two that I'm concentrating on.
So, those are your two as well? Double-teaming?
(laughs) Yeah, yeah.
In terms of what position they want you to play, what's been said so far?
It's really all up to the coaches, but they feel that I can play really all three positions. On offense, they feel like I have the versatility to play the one and the two.
I've watched you a lot, but I've never spoken to you. Which do you feel more comfortable playing?
You know, in AAU, I'm more comfortable playing off of the ball because of L.J. and, you know, in high school, I play more of the one. I can play both positions, so it really doesn't matter to me.
Are you going to be playing any big high school tournaments this year?
Oh, yeah, we're going to a high school one in North Carolina. I think it's in Durham. We're going to another one in Sacramento. Just try to play out there against some really good talent.
Academically, you have a reputation for being a very good student. Do you take pride in that?
Yeah, yeah. My parents have always been pushing me and my siblings to always take academics seriously. In my household, if you didn't get good grades, you couldn't play basketball, so that was always important to me.
That's unusual.
Yeah, yeah. That's another reason that I picked Duke. They've got great academics and I know that they'll always be looking to push me. It just felt like a great fit.
Now, you also go to a Jesuit school, like I did. Those guys don't play around.
(laughs) Yeah, yeah, they don't.
What would you like the audience to know about you off of the court? Maybe you can touch on your family?
Yeah, I'm a very family-oriented guy. I'm pretty strong in my faith. I have three older sisters, an older brother, and a younger sister.
There are six of you?
Yeah, yeah. So, yeah, there are six of us.
And I'm sure they're all proud of you.
Oh, yeah, they're all very proud.
Are they all in the Houston area?
Yeah, they all live in the Houston area, but one of my older sisters is in the army.
Now, have you thought about entering the military after you're done with basketball?
(laughs) Oh, no, no. Not at all.
What are some things you'd be interested in doing after basketball?
I'm really interested in getting into business. So, when I go to Duke, that's one thing that I'd really like to study.
Economics?
Yeah, yeah..economics.
I was an economics major, too.
Oh, you were?
What do you feel are your strengths and weaknesses?
I really feel like my strength right now is my shot. I feel really comfortable shooting. If I get the ball, I feel pretty confident that I can knock it down right now. I feel like my defense is one of my strengths as well right now. I feel like I can really get up onto the opponents and force them to do something that they don't want to do. As far as weaknesses, I feel that I can improve on my ball-handling more and getting stronger and finishing at the rack. Getting "and ones."
You draw a lot of contact.
Absolutely, one of my main goals right now is to get stronger so that when I draw contact, I can still go through it and finish at the free throw line.
In terms of free throw shooting, how good of a free throw shooter do you feel you are right now? I guess it's around 80%?
Yeah, I shot around 82% this year. (laughs)
Wow, pretty close. Therefore, when you draw contact and you're able to finish through it, you're able to rack up points Kyrie Irving-style, getting "and one" after "and one."
(laughs) Yeah, that's the hope.
Who's been the most difficult player for you to defend so far?
That's a tough one. I don't know that there was a player that was tough to guard, but, as a team, was California Supreme. They had a couple of guards that could combine to really hurt you. They're very effective as far as scoring points.
What do you think of the rise of Texas as far as basketball on the national level?
Well, you know, Texas is known for being a football state, but, you know, we're trying to prove that we're just as good at basketball as well. There are a lot of athletes in Texas and, you know, there are a lot of guys that are unknown nationally that are pretty good.
Maybe you could mention some names for the audience to check out.
Wannah Bail.
Oh, sure, the forward.
Yeah, it's just very competitive down here in Texas.
In terms of a position, what do you feel you are naturally? Or are you just a player?
I like to classify myself as combo guard. I feel comfortable with that.
So you really like that label? Some guys want to be viewed as one or the other.
Yeah.
Have you watched Tony play at all this week?
Actually, I haven't been able to. I haven't had a chance because of the schedule.
I caught a few of his games. He played well at times. Who do you try to model your game after? Is there any one guy?
I wouldn't say there's really one guy, but the guy that I like to watch a lot of tape on are Michael and Kobe.
I know, on Twitter, you're always mentioning about Kobe.
Yeah, those are my guys. I like to watch tape to see how Kobe scores and how he moves around without the ball.
I noticed in this game, for example, you stole one of his moves when you came around the elbow screen and then hit a baseline jump shot.
Yeah, yeah. I tried. (laughs)
Well, he's an excellent guy to model your game after.
Yeah, yeah, he is.
He's got that killer mentality.
He's got that killer instinct and everything like that. A scoring mentality too.
What was the experience like playing in the All-American game in Houston a few weeks ago? I thought it was a great idea to incorporate juniors into the game.
It was a great experience, you know, going to the place during the Final Four weekend. Meeting a lot of guys that you see a lot, but you never really talk to them, so it was great. A chance to interact with them, and everything like that. I developed a lot of relationships. It was great. The game was great. It was great on and off of the court.
Who are some guys around the country that you're friends with the people might not realize?
I'm pretty good friends with Myles Davis and Kyle Anderson. Yeah, from the Playaz. Rodney Purvis is another one. A lot of guys.
Obviously, you're very close with L.J. (Rose) and (J-Mychal) Mike (Reese). What kind of advantage does having that well-earned chemistry, through all of the years of playing together, give you on the AAU circuit?
It's a definite advantage because we've been playing together since we were in second grade. We already have that chemistry. We know where we like to score. We know where each other is without even seeing them, but it really becomes just a feel thing. Coming from the high school, we're just able to instantly gel, whereas other teams take time. And we're always together, so it's definitely an advantage. We don't need to find one another, we already know where we are.
Who are some other back courts that have really impressed you guys?
Oh, the Alabama Challenge is pretty good. They had some pretty good guards. And California Supreme, with Max Guercy and Katin Reinhardt. They're a pretty good pair.
I appreciate this very much.
Yeah, yeah. No problem.
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Blue Devil Nation Premium kicks off the week with another in depth interview, this time with big time prospect Nerlens Noel. Join BDN Premium as the AAU season heats up and stay close to the action asAndrew Slater and myself bring you word from the nations top talent on a consistent basis. Once finished reading this detailed interview, go back and read the latest on Jabari Parker, Alex Poythress, Tony Parker, all recent interviews and then discuss the latest with other members on our subscribers message board. And up next? Stay tuned for another one of the nations studs, when we bring you up close and personal with Julius Randle. Okay, on to the interview ...
Subtly, but quickly and powerfully, New England prep schools have become the most talent-laden leagues in the country. They've attracted players regionally, nationally, and internationally with their combination of great competition, quality academics with small teacher-to-student ratios, isolated locations designed to concentrate on their future trade, and facilities that can rival Division-III colleges. College coaches have taken notice and have made the wintry, circuitous trips in hopes of landing some impact college players.
One impact player, Nerlens Noel, makes a ninety minute drive from the Boston outskirts in Everett, Massachusetts, to the hills of Tilton, New Hampshire. This past March, the follically enhanced 6'10" sophomore helped lead the 166 year old Tilton School to its fourth consecutive NEPSAC Championship with a 72-57 victory over the more veteran St. Mark's with Alex Murphy and Kaleb Tarczewski. A week later, Tilton would narrowly lose 87-85 to ND Prep, a team so loaded that it brings a Louisville signee off of the bench. After the season, Noel was the only sophomore to be named first-team All-NEPSAC.
The reclassified 2013 prospect, Noel, has earned a reputation as being arguably the top shot-blocker in the nation, regardless of class. Not surprisingly, he is the leading shot-blocker in Nike's EYBL league and, despite his relatively narrow, 212 lb frame, he has affected substantially more shots as the last line of defense for the Boston Amateur Basketball Club. BABC is run by long-time New England staple, Leo Papile, who is also the Senior Director of Basketball Operations for the Boston Celtics. In the last game of the recent Dallas leg of the EYBL, Noel, who played twelve minutes through the pain of a basketball-related injury, lost his first AAU game, 81-78, in two years. That toughness is shared with his brothers, Jim and Rodman, who are set to play safety this September in the ACC for Boston College and NC State, respectively.
After a game in which he accumulated 12 rebounds, 13 points on 6 of 6 shooting, 6 assists, 4 blocks, and 2 steals against The Family of Detroit, Nerlens Noel spoke exclusively with Blue Devil Nation.
Let's start with recruiting. Who's after you right now?
Right now, I've got a lot of the Big East, ACC, and SEC after me. There's a lot in each conference, but I really don't have specific schools to be honest with you. I'm going to hopefully have a list out by the fall.
Oh, okay. Well, beyond that, do you have a time frame or a plan for when you'd like to cut down on schools or a time when you'd like to decide by?
Yeah, well, I'm going to start out with list by this fall to make it more manageable or whatever. Then, hopefully, after that, get serious about schools that clearly have an interest in me. Hopefully, things will start to clear up this summer.
Have you visited any schools yet? [private]
No, not really. No, I haven't.
Can you describe your game for an audience that may not have seen you play in person yet?
My game is that I think I'm a pretty good passer.
You're a hell of a shot-blocker.
Yeah, thanks, man, I think that's probably my best feature, you know, shot blocking and being a leader for both of my teams on the defensive end of the court. I try to be really vocal out there and demonstrate leadership. I feel like that's my responsibility. I need to be a leader out there on that end especially and tell guys if I see someone in the wrong spot or whatever. I'll always back them up, but it'll help if they can lock down on a guy on the perimeter. Just trying to keep the guys together. We've all been playing pretty good defense out there…not just me.
You guys have obviously been very successful (undefeated in April) out there. How much of it do you attribute to chemistry?I know at least four of you guys go to school at Tilton so you know each other very well. Mrs. Niang said there were, like, five of you guys in a room last night and not because of budget cutbacks at BABC, but because everyone wanted to hang out with each other.
Yeah, exactly, we know each other and our chemistry is real good. You know you see other teams that look like they've just been thrown together or whatever.
Are you guys talking about playing to get at the next level or is it one of those things where "if it happens, it happens?"I know you and Wayne (Selden) are getting recruited by a lot of the same schools.
We have talked about it a little bit, but I think it's going to be one of those things where, like you said, if it happens, it happens. If we both really like a school, then we'll go together, but it won't be anything where we force the other to go to the same school or put any pressure on each other. Yeah.
I was just curious because it seems like a lot of programs are going after multiple Tilton guys. Do you view yourself as a pure center or as more of a four/five?
Um, I don't really like any labels (laughs), but, as a basketball player, I don't really think of myself as a five.
Well, most of them frankly don't move like you move (laughs).
Yeah, I mean I feel like I'm a basketball player who can play and defend against most players down low. It doesn't matter to me if they're playing the four or the five. I just try to play.
Right, what's your current size and how much does the hair help? (laughs)
The hair doesn't help and I'm about 6'10."
Alright, alright, but maybe a couple of inches.
Yeah, maybe an inch or two.
Hell, I ought grow a fro that high if I could.
(laughs) Yeah, my hair helps a little.
How much do you weigh now? It looks like you're starting to get a little bigger in the upper-body. I've seen you a number of times this year at Tilton and it looks each time like you're making a little progress in that area.
Yeah, I've been in the weight room a lot more this year and I'm up to 212 right now.
How much would you like to get up to by next season?
Probably 220 to 225.
What are you eating, McDonald's?
Yeah, McDonald's or whatever can help put some weight on me is fine with me. (laughs) I just know that I need to get bigger.
Now, how are the facilities there at Tilton, in terms of weight-lifting and cardio? Do you guys still have a strength and conditioning coach?
Oh, yeah, we've got a good program. We work out three to four times a week. Just adding size and working out. Just trying to get our work in.
Speaking of that can you tell the audience about the competition that you face both in practice and in games at Tilton? Some people may not realize, who aren't from the area, just how good the competition is that you guys face, game in and game out.
Yeah, it is real tough. Everybody goes up against each other. We've got George (Niang), a really tough post player. He's really strong with a good touch too. We've got Goodluck..
He's starting to come along too.
Yeah, he is starting to come along. You can see it, week by week, where it's starting to click with him by facing all of us in practice. I really think we all get better by facing all different types of guys, whether it's guys with a different skill type or more athleticism.
Exactly, because, no offense, but, if you were a normal guy growing up in Iowa, you would never be facing someone your size on a regular basis, let alone maybe at all. You'd be playing against 6'3" centers.
Definitely, it makes us all a lot better. You can't hide in our league.
I saw you against (Andre) Drummond (current consensus top player in 2012) earlier in the season, but who's been the most difficult player for you to defend? You played well that day against him.
To be honest with you, the guy I actually have a hard with is on my own team, George. He's tough and skilled.
Yeah, yeah.
I've gotta deal with him in pickup. He's got that soft touch with a lot of strength. He's a smart player too.
I think he's underrated.
Yeah, he definitely is. People need to watch out for him.
What are you ideally looking for in whatever program you ultimately decide on?
I'm looking for a good coaching staff, players who want to win, and a staff that develops players and takes them to the next level.
They've got to have a track record.
Yeah, that's a must. Just a good system that can develop bigs.
How about style of play? I've seen you play in a very, almost passive, half-court oriented system and also playing in an uptempo, get-out-and-go, pressure the ball style.
Yeah, I mean I like to run, but that's not necessary. Whatever I can do to help, I'll do. I can adjust myself to their style of play. I can fit in with whatever the coaches want to do.
So, you can fit to their preferred style of play?
Yeah, definitely.
Obviously, you go away to school right now, but it's not too far from Everett. Will distance be a factor at all for you?
No, not at all. It really don't matter to me.
Who's your favorite player or a guy that you try to model your game after?
I really look to try to make myself like Kevin Garnett. I mean I like Kevin Durant a lot too, but Garnett is really closer to how I play.
Speaking of the Celtics, I know Coach Papile works for the Celtics. Do you ever get a chance to go over with him and watch the Celtics play?I know Tilton takes its academics very seriously and they may not let you guys out for an evening, but I was just wondering.
Oh, no, I don't go to any games, but..
Practices?
Yeah, exactly, I've seen them up close at a few practices. Mostly just watching them on TV and stuff though. Watching their intensity and energy on defense really motivates me to be like them and keep pushing myself.
It's got to be helpful to have a guy like that as your coach for the summer, as opposed to some jokers who call themselves "coach."
(laughs) Yeah, exactly, it's embarrassing because I mean, you know, he's a real coach who knows what he's doing.
What would you like the audience to know about you away from the court? What you like to do?
Oh, yeah, sure, when I'm out of school, I love to play NBA 2K11. I'm really good at that.
Let me guess. You're on the Celtics.
laughs) I feel badly, but it's between the Celtics and the Heat.
(laughs) Yeah, yeah, sure, you're guilty. You want to win.
That's true too. I just also love to hang with my friends, especially Goodluck (Okonoboh).
Now, is he the one that you're closest to on the team?
Yeah, yeah, definitely.
I'm always curious about those kind of things. Team dynamics. Are you guys roommates or does everyone have their own place?
Yeah, sure. No, we're roommates in school too.
Who will you turn to for guidance whenever you do decide on a program? Who will be some influential in your life?
Coach Papile, my head coach at Tilton, Marcus O'Neil, my brothers, my older brothers…they played football in college.
Oh, yeah, where?
My oldest brother, Jim, plays safety at Boston College and my next oldest brother, Rodman, he's going to NC State. He's leaving on May 21st. He'll be going down there soon.
Did they ever ask you to go out for the team?
Did they ask me to what?
Go out for the football team?
Oh, yeah, definitely, please, I played football. I was real good too.
Oh, did you? What were you a D-end? What am I looking at here?
I played quarterback.
Holy cow!
Yeah, and wide receiver.
Jesus, it must hard to take you down at your size.
(laughs)
Now, that explains some of your toughness. I know at some some of those prep schools they make you play a sport every season. Are you going to playing football this fall at Tilton or…
(laughs) I was looking to but…
… they want to protect those knees?
Right, right, right.
What are some things that you'd like to accomplish this summer?
I want to establish myself as a top player throughout the course of the summer.
Get your name out there?
Yeah, as much as I can.
How about your body? Before, you were saying that you'd like to add a few pounds..
Yeah, I want to make my body as solid as I can. I want to develop a go-to move. I want to listen to my coaches and do whatever hard work that they tell me to do.
There are obviously other guys that have your length and some have similar athleticism. What do you think makes you or one a good shot blocker? Timing? Patience? Natural ability?
To be honest with you, some of its natural, but you also have to constantly figure out their moves, how athletic they are, how high they will elevate, but it might just be a natural thing.
(AAU ref interrupts to see if one of us can get a ball that's stuck high on the back of a backboard, Noel takes this one)
That's a showoff move, man.
(laughs)
For those that may not know, you reclassified to 2013, is there any chance that you may wind up back in the 2012 class or have you pretty much decided that 2013 is where you feel comfortable?
It crosses my mind sometimes, but nothing too serious. Some times I think about it, though. Right now, I'm just trying to make the most of my opportunities. Take everything one day at a time.
How did you decide to choose Tilton?
Playing at Tilton? They had made a nice run with Alex and Jamal. Those two guys just became national champions.
They had a good system.
Talk about a track record.
Yeah, and I liked coach. Now, we've got George, Wayne, Goodluck, me, and the other guys.
What are your goals for next season with the team?
Oh, we've got to get the national championship. I think we had a good run this year, but we lost in a close one to Notre Dame.
Yeah, I know I happened to be there for that game too. You guys lost by two to them in the semifinals, but ND Prep was loaded and, frankly, they're also a lot older.
Yeah, both, but next year we're going to come back and take that championship.
George played very well in that game
Yes, absolutely, very well.
Outside of your Tilton team, who are some other guys that your friends with on the circuit?
Ricky Ledo.
Ricky Ledo?
Yep, I'm cool with him. Shaq (Jones)…he plays for ND Prep. Andrew Chrabascz, who plays with us for BABC and plays for Cushing. Those are three guys.
Yeah, I just didn't know which guys you liked to hang out with during the down time or people that you keep running into throughout the spring and summer.
Yeah, do you know Savon from the Playaz?
Sure, Savon Goodman. He's very, very nice off of the court, but a tough two-way player on it. I love his aggression and toughness. I like him a lot.
Do you know what your reach is right now?
(laughs) We measured it a while back.
It's got to be ridiculous.
Yeah, I think it was like 7'5," but that was a while back back. (laughs) It might've grown a little bit since then.
You had mentioned before that some ACC schools were after you and I had heard that one of those schools was Duke. Have they expressed interest in you?
Yeah, I'm pretty sure that they are. They were at my school the other week.
Were you there or were you out of town?
Yeah, no, I was there. They watched us play pickup. I think they liked what they saw. Well, I guess so.
What do you know about their program?
I know they develop pros. Coach K is a very good coach. Personally, I believe that he's one of the best. They've got a real good program over there.
Would you be interested in visiting them, among the other schools that you check out?
BDN's Andrew Slater gets up close and personal with one of the nations top prospects in his fabulous new interview - BDN Photo, A. Slater
Deep in the South Side of Chicago sits Simeon Career Academy, a vocational school that has helped churn out graduates with skill sets that are able to enter the labor force. One of its recent graduates, Derrick Rose, was just named the youngest MVP of the NBA.
Jabari Parker, a 6'7" 215 lb sophomore forward at the school, has accomplished something that even Rose didn't: he's started every game of his high school career. This past March, the multifaceted sophomore, who last year was named ESPN Rise's National Freshman of the Year, lead Simeon to a 48-39 victory over Warren for its second consecutive and fifth overall state title.
Chicago is called the City of Big Shoulders. If following in the footsteps of the MVP might be too much of a burden to some, it's not to the soft spoken Parker. The Parker name carries a lot of weight in Chicago, where his father, Robert "Sonny" Parker, has tried to give back to the community that helped raise him.
His dad, Sonny, was an all-state player over at Farragut, the alma mater of Kevin Garnett. Mr. Parker then became a Junior College All-American at Mineral College and spent his last two years in College Station at Texas A&M, where he was named the Southwest Conference Player of the Year. After graduating, he became a first round draft pick in 1976 of the Golden State Warriors, where he played in the Bay Area for his entire six-year NBA career.
In 1990, he began the Chicago-based Sonny Parker Youth Foundation, a non-profit which seeks to offer year-round recreational and educational after-school programs for Chicago kids in grades K-12, in order to provide alternatives to gang and drug-related violence that still plagues parts of the Windy City. In the mid-90s, the altruistic Mr. Parker would have the last of his seven children, Jabari, who likely will turn out to be the best basketball player of his scion and a future contributor to the legacy of his foundation.
A 3.5 student, Jabari Parker, is very demanding of himself on and off of the court, but feels that his Mormon faith has kept him grounded, as others have tried to tout him as the next great one. Looking for a demanding college coach that will treat him the same as his teammates, the versatile Parker traveled to Durham this past winter to catch a Duke game with Shabazz Muhammad. The 2013 prospect has spoken with Duke coaches Mike Krzyzewski and Nate James and appreciates their straightforward approach.
In April, Jabari visited the University of Washington, where reportedly Coach Romar, a former Golden State Warrior teammate of Sonny Parker, is interested in hiring his older brother, Christian.
At a recent AAU tournament, the gracious Jabari Parker, who now plays with Nike's Mac Irvin Fire, spoke at lengthexclusivelywith Blue Devil Nation. Which schools are recruiting you?
Note - I have never seen a more in depth, informative and concise interview with a player of major interest to Duke fans as this Jabari Parker interview conducted by BDN Recruiting Analyst Andrew Slater. You will be a flat out expert on Parker by the time you read this 3264 word interview and learn about a key prospect In short, join BDN Premium. And folks, we are just scratching the surface on warm ball recruiting coverage! Once you are a member and finish this article, you can then jump to the latest on Alex Poythress and Tony Parker and there is more to come. And remember, this interview is exclusive, meaning you will not find it elsewhere nor will you see well studied questions designed to bring you up close and personal, BDN style. - Mark Watson
That's plenty. Do you have a timeline for when you'd like to decide by?
I'm going to [private] open up my recruitment fully. I'm not going to commit too early because I'd like to get my teammates the same good looks that I've received.
You want to give them the opportunity to have all of those eyes watching them.
Yeah, that's right.
That's generous of you. For those that haven't seen you play in person or, perhaps, have only seen your highlights on YouTube, can you describe your game to the audience? How do you view yourself?
It's not complete. I feel that there's still a lot that I have to work on, but I feel that I sometimes lack all the intangibles. Like there are times where I find myself being lazy and not diving for loose balls or grabbing an extra offensive rebound that I should or even sometimes not moving enough without the ball. Some of my strengths are that I can shoot well. I'm a triple threat. I'm pretty good at scoring on the break. In transition, I'm able to make passes and I'm good defensively. That's it.
In terms of position, what do you view yourself as? A three? Four?
Yeah, a 3/4. In high school, they run me at a lot of four.
Yeah, outside of two high school games with Simeon, I've primarily watched you on the AAU circuit, where they've played you at both forward spots and even a bit at center. Who is "the guy" that you try to model your game after? Is there any one player or a couple of guys?
Some of the main small forwards in the League, like Paul Pierce, a lot of people compare me to him. I like to watch Carmelo Anthony a lot though.
Alright, finally, a Knick gets mentioned.
(laughs)
He's such a tremendous overall offensive weapon. Either in Chicago or on the AAU circuit, who's been the most difficult guy for you try to contain?
It was Anthony Davis at the NBA Top 100 camp. He was so difficult to match-up against.
What are you looking for ideally in a college program, whenever you do decide? What are some things?
Yeah, I'm looking for a school that will treat me the same as everybody else. At the same time, I'm able to work hard and push myself to the highest levels of basketball. I'm also just looking for a good relationship with the coaching staff and one with good school spirit.
You mentioned schools all across the country. Will distance be a factor for you or not really?
Not really, wherever I go, I'll be able to see my parents or they'll come out to my games to see me. That's fine.
Would they be interested in relocating?
I don't know about that. My dad's in Chicago most of the time and he's really been there for most of his whole life.
Speaking of that, can you compare your game to your dad's? For those that may not know, your dad, Sonny Parker, was a pro for a number of years.
Yeah, sure, a lot of people around the city say that I have some of the same moves like he had and the same athleticism. Well, not really because he was more athletic than I am. Yeah, my father's been there for me and he's been an inspiration and I'm fortunate to have a father figure in my life. A lot of these kids don't have fathers in their lives.
Yeah, I was talking a little bit about it last night with another father, Mr. Pinson, and he was saying that it's an absolute shame that a lot of fathers don't want to be in their son's lives. You're fortunate.
Yeah, and I'm also fortunate because he went to the next level in the NBA.
Yeah, well, that's another story. (laughs)
(laughs)
Does he give you a lot of pointers or is he, sort of, hands off, in terms of basketball?
Yeah, he gives me advice, but he doesn't really try to coach me or anything like that. He mostly gives me advice.
When you need it…he, sort of, picks his spots.
Yes, exactly.
Speaking of that, who will be some people in your life that will be influential in your college decision? Your mother and father?
Yeah, it'll just be my inner circle. My coach from Simeon, Rob Smith. My mom and dad. My brothers, you know, my whole family.
Where do you fit in, in terms of your family? Are you the youngest? Forgive me for not knowing or remembering. It's been a long day.
No, it's okay. I'm the youngest and I've got two older brothers. One played overseas in Hungary and my other brother is trying to coach at the University of Washington.
Oh, okay. Can you tell the audience a little bit about you away from the court? What would you like them to know about you as a person?
I try to be a really good person. I'm able to click with people. I care about people and I'm humble.
I'm a first-hand witness to that. In terms of your faith, it's a somewhat unusual one.
Yeah, it is.
I literally never have asked about their religion or faith, but, if you don't mind, could you touch on that and possibly how it differentiates you or fills a void?
It helps me stay calm and stay spiritual. Like, I'm not better than anybody else, but I'm also the same as anybody else. I'm just a normal person that happens to play basketball. I'm glad that I have it in my life because I find that it keeps me grounded. I was glad to see people like Jimmer and Danny Ainge have success with spirituality in their lives.
In terms of Chicagoland, they've got a basketball history as strong as anybody. These things ebb and flow, but there's been a bit of a renaissance in Chicago the last couple of years and its continued into your class and the 2014 one as well. Nationally, I'd say Chicago, the New England prep schools, and Texas will be the story over the next couple of years. Can you talk about your class and some of the other bright stars set to come out of the city?
Well, it's always been good over the past years, but, in the past year or so, it's been really good to see some of our guys get national attention like Wayne Blackshear, Anthony Davis, Michael Henry, Sam Thompson. They've really taken Chicago and represented it very well. I'm very glad that the number one player in the country is Anthony Davis of Chicago. I think he does a good job of representing the city real well.
I've dealt with him a few times and he seems to be a really nice kid.
Yeah, he's very nice. He's real nice to everybody.
It's nice to see also a person "come out of nowhere" and wind up as one of the top players in his class. It can be inspirational for future ballers to keep grinding.
Yeah, and he doesn't even have a really big ego either. He's just a really ordinary person and those characteristics, like his personality didn't change just because he became a really good basketball player.
It'll probably help him later in life after he stops playing as well. Speaking of that, do you have any interest in following your brother into coaching as well?
Yeah, kinda sorta, but I just really want to give back to the community. Chicago has done so much for me and it's helped me get out of the streets and stuff. I'd like to work on returning the favor.
How would you go about that? Have you thought about that?
Yeah, I have. I'll take over my dad's foundation and just work to expand it. Hopefully, helping people in the community.
I've heard from people, including coincidentally today, talk about your father and his foundation. Tell the audience a little bit about what your father does, his foundation and what it looks to achieve.
He really deals with the youth of Chicago and he helps hold workouts and camps for kids and stuff. He tries to reach out..
To keep kids off the street and use that energy toward a more positive means.
Exactly, and he also ran an AAU organization. Actually, Anthony Davis was one of the first players there and Wayne Blackshear. That foundation is really highly thought of by people that play basketball.
That's great. Let's talk about your team, Mac Irvin. You've got some guys that also play alongside you at Simeon. What do you think of your squad this year, the level of talent on Mac Irvin this year, and potentially how it'll help you adjust to playing the college game?
It's similar. I think this tournament, the EYBL, the league will help me to be a better basketball player and get me to look closely at the stuff that I'm not able to do. Stuff that I need to improve at. So, this'll help me to improve for college, the next level, when it's really faster.
Do you like or even prefer to play in transition? You do it very well for a guy your size.
Yeah, I love transition because, like, on the break, the other guys can't really set up in their defenses.
Right. I've noticed you picking angles and spaces in transition, which is relatively advanced for a guy your age too. You pick your spots.
Yeah, you're right.
I should've asked you this before, but what kind of system would you like to play in and how important will that be in your ultimate decision? You've got some very different offensive systems or philosophies listed among your college choices.
Yeah, I mean I like a transition offense. That could help me in the NBA because mainly there's a lot of fast break points and a lot of one-on-one stuff. So, if that's stuff that I can improve at, then it'll also help make me into a better basketball player.
Are you a Bulls fan, by the way?
I like the Bulls, but I've got to go with my Celtics.
Oh, a Celtics fan. That's interesting. Did coaches come and visit you during the open period?
Do you mean, like, come by the school?
Yes, exactly.
Oh, well, I wasn't at the school at the time, but I heard that BYU came. Illinois, Michigan State, and, I think, Nevada. I was away, but I also heard that Memphis was there for Kendrick Nunn from Simeon and they're looking at him.
What are you hoping to accomplish this summer?
Just a buildup for the season. You know just get myself out there on the circuit and play with the EYBL, which is new to me because I played with Ferrari before.
Will you be playing with both programs?
No, no.
Strictly Mac Irvin for the rest of the year?
Yeah, that's it.
In terms of something like skill development, are you looking to work on your perimeter shot? It seems like you've been either a little more comfortable shooting from the mid-range and deep this year or are, at least trying to expand your game?
Yeah, I can improve my shot a lot. I'm working on getting my shot a little better and getting my handle a little better.
And how about your body?
I'm working on that too. I'm trying to get a little more ripped.
I noticed that your shoulders are getting a little bit bigger.
Yeah, and I've lost a little bit of weight, too.
How did you do it? Was it a lot of conditioning? What was your secret?
Conditioning, yeah, I've just been working out at the Attack Center with Tim Grover.
Oh, yeah? That's a big time place.
Yeah, me and Tommy Hamilton. I've been building my body up and getting my wind back.
Speaking of you and Tommy Hamilton, are you interested in going to college together? Are you being recruited together?
We've been talking about it. We're interested in going to college together, and I know that he's really interested in Illinois, Michigan State, and Minnesota and those schools. That could be a factor because, you know, me and him grew up together. We have a lot of fun together, he's a real laid back guy. He really doesn't have any beef with people or hold any grudges.
In terms of you next year at Simeon, what are your hopes and expectations for next season? Another state title?
Yeah, another state title and to get on the national scene because next year will be my first year going out to like the big-time places.
Which ones are you going to in case some members of the audience want to catch a game?
We're going to Pittsburgh, we're going to Boston, and I think we're going to Melrose.
Last week there was some speculation that Washington may be your leader because your brother might be hired there as a coach. Can you talk about that, if you would? If it's a touchy issue, we can just move on.
No, no, it's cool. When I went out to Washington, it was very nice. I'm trying to take all my recruitment like all my top five equally. I don't really have a high, but since I went out there, it gave me a better look and a better experience with the campus and the University.
What other schools have you visited?
I've visited Michigan State, Duke, and, you know, Illinois is right down the road.
Oh, sure, and probably DePaul, too.
Oh, yeah, and DePaul, too, definitely.
What did you see and do on those visits?
Yeah, those schools, they have a lot of traditions and I liked a lot of the campuses that they have. They have really good athletic dorms and, you know, I like the coaches and the basketball players.
Did you visit BYU as well?
No, I haven't.
Can you talk about your visit to Duke and what was your impression of the school?
Yeah, Duke was very good. Coach K is one of the best coaches ever. He's a guy that I can trust and, when I was talking to him, he was telling me the truth and not telling me what I wanted to hear. That stuff that's going to help me in the future and stuff. Nate James is a really nice guy. And I could get a really good education when I go to Duke, too.
Are you a good student as well?
Yeah, I'm good, but sometimes I can lack on the tests and stuff. Yeah, I have a 3.5.
That's very solid.
I could really be better.
What would you like to major in?
I major now in Information Technology. In my school, that's my career path.
Right, are you good at working with computers? What do you study or do with respect to IT? I apologize.
No, it's okay. We work out on Microsoft, like on Windows and stuff, and Excel. Like formatting documents and stuff so that we can do, like, newsletters for the school and stuff. But, when I go to college, I'll probably major in Communications or Secondary Education. Maybe, one day, if I'm a high school teacher, I'll be able to coach in high school.
Would you like to coach at Simeon one day or would you rather somewhere else?
Probably somewhere else. I'd like to go to a program where I could build it on my own.
Getting back to your father for a second, with all of his connections, has it helped you meet and play with better players? Maybe at the NBA level?
Well, my dad, you know, he's been playing since the 70s and stuff. Like, I've had the opportunity to meet a lot of people through him like John Lucas and those guys and they help me look at basketball not as the business aspect, but something to love and stuff. It's something that you want to do, not something that you have to do.
Much more of a pure aspect to it.
Yes, exactly.
Thank you very much for your time.
No, thank you. Thank you. I enjoyed it.
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