Prospect Watch: Luke Thorburg (2017)
Class of 2017 power forward Luke Thorburg of Northwest (Cedar Hill) is an under the radar talent who has been a bright spot for a team that has been struggling to find wins this season. A transfer from tiny Tower…
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Continue ReadingClass of 2017 power forward Luke Thorburg of Northwest (Cedar Hill) is an under the radar talent who has been a bright spot for a team that has been struggling to find wins this season.
A transfer from tiny Tower Grove Christian in St. Louis, the 6’8″ Thorburg made the move to Northwest for his senior year and he has enjoyed success as a scorer, rebounder and shot blocker. He has also received some collegiate interest from NAIA schools such as Columbia College and Missouri Baptist. He could be a good get for a smaller college with his size, athletic ability and high motor.
“It was a big adjustment to a new style of play under a new coach, but I think I have adapted well to it,” Thorburg said. “Tower Grove was more of a run and gun team that played a lot of small ball. Now, the Class 5A teams were are playing here have a lot more height and the discipline to run set schemes and offenses.”
Thorburg has been a consistent force for the Lions, averaging 14 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks per game while shooting nearly 60 percent from the field. He is an active big who is pretty athletic and can run the court and crash the boards. He has been able to bust loose with some huge performances during the season which shows what kind of talent he has. On Dec. 7, he had 24 points, 19 rebounds and seven blocks against Windsor. He had 29 points, 21 rebounds and three blocks against St. Clair on Jan. 3 and followed that up with 16 points, 18 rebounds and three blocks against Seckman on Jan. 6.
“Playing with a better motor and higher intensity has led to more success,” Thorburg said. “I have a good amount of natural ability, but I’ve really focused on anticipating where the ball is going to be as a rebounder.