Recruiting Update: Amari Goulbourne (2017)
When you think about the glue that holds Tampa Prep together, you can’t help but picture point guard Amari Goulbourne. The senior has been a steady contributor for the Terrapins over the past three seasons and is now in his…
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Continue ReadingWhen you think about the glue that holds Tampa Prep together, you can’t help but picture point guard Amari Goulbourne.
The senior has been a steady contributor for the Terrapins over the past three seasons and is now in his fourth varsity year for them. Goulbourne is averaging a career-best 13.6 points per game. He’s also averaging 5.2 assists, 3.8 rebounds and 3.3 steals per game for Tampa Prep (16-5).
Goulbourne calls this season a learning experience for himself and the team.
“After losing to Tampa Catholic, we realized that we are a pretty good team but we still have to give a 110 percent effort,” he said. “We have to focus at all times to become a great team.”
Besides making a deep run and capturing a Class 4A state title, he says his main goal is to earn a scholarship to play at the next level.
At 5’10”, 170 lbs., Goulbourne is quick with the ball out of his hands and when he attacks he sneaks past you. He says he’s trying to become better at hitting open shots consistently.
His mid-range and 3-point jump shot has improved since last season he says. Goulbourne is shooting 74 percent on field goal attempts and 48 percent on 3-pointers.
Last time I talked with Goulbourne for a story was in August when he had interest from only West Florida and Salem International.
He now has interest from 14 total schools including the two listed above. Goulbourne says Queens Charlotte, Rhodes College and West Florida are showing him the most interest currently.
“I feel as if I can be a game changer with my ability to guard 94 feet, lead a team through adversity, and being able to hit the open jumper when defensive collapses,” he said.
St. Leo, Eckerd, Lenior-Rhyne, FAMU, Belmont Abbey, Mobile, DePauw, Embry-Riddle, Sage, Lees-McRae and Pensacola State are the other programs showing interest in Goulbourne.
No offers just yet for the scrappy point guard, but his leadership and speed doesn’t go unnoticed. The coaching staff trusts Goulbourne to lead the offense and on defense, I’ve seen him set his team up time and time again by being vocal and smart. Goulbourne will be playing basketball in college next fall no doubt in my mind.
Film study: Goulbourne weaves through defenders