6-foot-4 guard Jordy McKenzie desired to determine his future collegiate destination, if possible, before taking to the court in his final high school season at Archbishop Riordan in late November 2023. Wrap that aspiration up with a large "Mission Accomplished" bow as McKenzie recently committed to Eastern Washington University (EWU) of the Big Sky Conference.
So why the choice of the Eagles and Head Coach David Riley? "I liked the staff and the players," McKenzie explained, "it was like a big family with everyone believing in each other." EWU broke down the offer barrier, with USF, Idaho State, Montana and a few other D1 schools also tracking McKenzie's play this summer.
"I didn’t play AAU last summer which significantly affected my recruitment," McKenzie noted. "I took a risk and spent the summer skill training and strength and conditioning training in hopes that it would all pay off." Ultimately, it did because all it takes is one enamored suitor.
McKenzie and his parents took an official visit to EWU on October 6. Regarding his decision, "I had a great feeling along with a sense of relief."
According to McKenzie, Eagle fans will be seeing "shooting, being able to score and make plays, finishing over opponents with contact and good defense. I want to do everything and like to work on all aspects of my game."
Regarding hoops influences, McKenzie said, "my Dad who has trained me all my life and all my former coaches who gave me knowledge and helped me see the game better." Plus, the late Kobe Bryant. "I always enjoyed watching his film." Bryant's play actually influenced McKenzie into getting into basketball. "I found out I loved it and had a talent for it. But I do like watching football."
Asked to name a best basketball moment, McKenzie offered, "in my sophomore year, I scored 38 points against Fremont, a team we had lost to earlier in a tournament." More currently, "during the final live period of the summer, I dropped 25 points in a huge win against California Stars, a team full of high major players."
In the academic element, "I posted a 3.5 grade point average in my first two years." That was at Pinole Valley High prior to his transfer down to Archbishop Riordan in San Francisco.
Asked to detail what has changed in his game since his freshman year, McKenzie replied, "I was kind of nervous and quiet as a kid but now I just play my game. I've gotten stronger, more athletic and improved my handle."
As for a major, "It will either be business or journalism. I'm in a journalism class right now."
No comments:
Post a Comment