Virginia Recruiting Report: Riley Welch (2017)
Toughness is one of the most admirable qualities a basketball player can possess. Riley Welch, a class of 2017 point guard out of West Springfield High School, quite clearly possesses that attribute. While he’s usually not considered the most athletic player…
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Continue ReadingToughness is one of the most admirable qualities a basketball player can possess. Riley Welch, a class of 2017 point guard out of West Springfield High School, quite clearly possesses that attribute. While he’s usually not considered the most athletic player on the court, Welch makes up for it with a high IQ and solid leadership intangibles.
As the second leading scorer on his team, Riley has demonstrated an efficient scoring touch from long range. He hit a team high 37 three pointers, and averaged double-figure scoring numbers while playing most of the season with a hip injury. He prides himself on outworking his opponents.
“I’m a smart, crafty player. I got good skill, handle the ball well, make good decisions and make shots,” Welch stated. “My defense could get better, but defense can always get better. I work hard every minute when I’m on the court. I try to be a good leader and teammate.”
This spring and summer, Welch has been recovering from a torn labrum which he suffered during the season. He’s two months into the rehab process, and expects to be 100% and back on the court in four months. He was slated to play on the AAU circuit with Higher Level 17U Premier. Since his sophomore year, Riley has really embraced his role and is regarded as leader of his high school team.
“I used to get nervous handling the ball and bringing it up the court, but I think I’ve gotten a lot better at keeping my poise and being strong with the ball,” he explained. “I’m comfortable being the point guard, speaking up, calling the plays. Being more of a vocal leader and a presence with the ball in my hands.”
An underrated passer, Riley often tries to find open guys on the court. He also loves rewarding his bigs in transition. His goal is to get everyone involved. He believes being more consistent in the mid-range areas will help elevate his game, and his teammates games to the next level.
“I want to get better at my mid range pull up,” he said. “I think that will add another dimension to my game. Open up driving lanes, open up for my teammates.”
Welch sports a very solid 3.7 GPA in the classroom. He took a couple of AP courses this year, and expects it to go up by the time final report cards come out. Division 2 and 3 programs such as Fairmont State and Randolph Macon have the rising senior floor general on their radar. During the season, Welch had planned a trip to West Virginia to see the campus at Fairmont. The trip was cancelled due to weather. As he considers his options for the next level, Riley is focused on selecting a school which will prioritize him within their program.
“I want to go to a place where I can play,” said Welch. “Where they have my best interests in mind, and where I can be one of the focal points of the team.”