Getting to know 2019 forward Zion Carter
2019 forward Zion Carter is on his way up.
The Berkeley Prep sophomore is playing in a rotational role in his first varsity season. Carter has two double digit performances this season, 16 and 12 points respectively averaging 4.1 points per game and averaging 54 percent from the field for the Buccaneers (12-6).
Carter flashed his potential in an 81-53 win at Shorecrest Prep on Saturday. He recorded his first double double with 12 points and 11 rebounds.
Here’s what he had to say about this season for him.
“I go into every practice and game with the same three goals to help put me in the winning mindset: work hard, have fun and get better,” Carter said. “My goals every time I touch a basketball are to hustle and give all my effort 100 percent of the time (work hard); play for the love of the game and not let the little mistakes mess with me in the moment (have fun); and use every opportunity I have, whether it’s 20 seconds or 20 minutes, to improve my game and work towards my dream of playing college ball (get better).”
At 6’6″, 215 lbs., Carter is the son of former 14 year NFL defensive end Kevin Carter, a current ESPN college football analyst.
Zion says his dad has helped him build a mindset of a competitor and a winner.
“He would mostly do this by telling me stories of his pro days,” he said. “For example, how he would envision himself as Superman because he could be a nice guy off the field as his alter ego, but when the whistle blew, he could unleash his true beast.
“I used his story and turned it into my own. I use the same idea but with the Hulk. This helps me be professional and kind to people off the court but as soon as it’s time to do what I can do, I don’t have to hold back.”
Carter says he continues to work on his foot speed and agility to be able to guard any position on the court.
“I’m looking to improve my free throws, ball handling and over all skill set because I believe there’s no cap to how good someone can get,” he said. “I focus on five fundamental post moves that some of the all-time greats, like Tim Duncan, have perfected. This year I’ve already seen large jumps in my game because of this fundamental work. I have learned how to finish better with contact, improved my strength, vertical, speed and expanded my repertoire of moves in the post (for example using my left hand and spin moves).”
Carter says he tries to model his game after NBA greats LaMarcus Aldridge, Blake Griffin and Tim Duncan.
“My skill set includes being strong enough to finish at the rim through heavy contact but also having good ball handling skills to drive to the basket and soft enough touch to shoot effectively from mid range,” he said.
No offers or interest have come for him just yet, but Carter is planning to amp things up this summer attending many showcases to show off his talent.
Here is how he sees himself at the next level.
“I think I could contribute to a college team that utilizes and helps develop this type of player,” Carter said. “Also, I hope to go to a good academic school that matches my love for math, science and music.”
This is a really good kid right here. Being raised in an athletic family, Carter has shined at times this season with seniors Tim Keeley and Kaleeyl Findlay injured. Berkeley Prep is going to build around Carter, there’s no doubt in my mind.
He has a really solid jump shot and he’s always hustling on the glass for boards. Cater provides solid energy at his frame.