Recruiting Report: Derek Webster (2017)
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Derek Webster skipped a grade in elementary school, and still – even a year young for his grade – he’s one of the best power forward prospects in 2017. The 6-foot-6 Seffner Christian junior is not only a force…
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Continue ReadingDerek Webster skipped a grade in elementary school, and still – even a year young for his grade – he’s one of the best power forward prospects in 2017.
The 6-foot-6 Seffner Christian junior is not only a force on the court – an effort guy – but also shines in the classroom. A trait that not only enabled him to skip a grade, but has spurred some Ivy League interest.
“I was in first grade, and they had me test to see if I knew everything for that grade and I did, so they had me skip that grade. I just turned 16 in November,” said the junior, who has two Ivy League schools inquiring.
“I’ve been told by my coach that schools like Columbia, Brown, Stetson, Embry-Riddle, and Nova Southeastern,” have asked about me.
“Nova Southeastern is probably the most interested right now.”
Webster says his priorities are academics, and then basketball, and the Ivy attention is intriguing to him.
“I’ve always focused more on education first, before sports – that’s what my dad always told me,” said Webster. “I’ve never gotten a B on a report card and take my education very seriously, and the Ivy League interest has definitely caught my attention.”
The talented junior – PHF’s 45th-ranked 2017 went on to define his playing style.
“My strength, especially on a team like (my grassroots team) Southeast Elite where they’re all scorers, is to be a leader on the team – just get the game going, get everyone pumped,” said Webster. “I’m more of a defensive player, if my offensive game isn’t there, my coach knows that I’ll be going 150 percent on defense, and I’m always rebounding going for those 50/50 balls.”
He’s already the leading rebounder in Crusaders history, he says his shooting is something he’d like to improve now.
“I need to become more comfortable with my shot,” said Webster. “I’ve definitely seen improvement, but my confidence is key. In practice I can stroke it, but not in the game – I’m just more comfortable attacking the rim right now.”