The Basketball Interview … Meet Creighton recruit Mitchell Ballock
BONNER SPRINGS — Eudora 2017 standout Mitchell Ballock saw his high school career come to an end on Saturday as the xx fell in sub-state play to Bishop Miege, 49-41.
Ballock, a 6’5 guard, has signed to play basketball at Creighton, choosing the Blue Jays over a host of suitors.
He spent the past two off seasons playing for KC Run GMC on the Under Armor Association circuit and built quite a name and reputation for his hard-nosed play and talented all-around game.
We recently caught up with Ballock and asked him about his senior season and his future in the college game next year and beyond.
PrepHoops — How would you describe your game and what you bring to the basketball court?
Mitchell — I’d say my game is doing whatever it is to win. I can stretch the floor by being able to shoot. But I can also put the ball on the floor and make a play going at the basketball.
PrepHoops — How would you describe the season Eudora had and the match-up with Miege in sub-state play?
Mitchell — We had a pretty good season this year with Eudora. Obviously a tough loss to Miege, looking back, if the ball bounces a little differently a couple of times maybe the outcome is different. But that’s the beauty in the game. It keep you humble and makes you want to grind that much harder with games like that.
PrepHoops — What was the experience playing for KC Run GMC like? How much did that experience impact your basketball career?
Mitchell — Playing with RunGMC was a great experience for me, all the relationships I built throughout the years with the program, all the traveling we did, the places we got to see, while playing the game we love, was one of the best opportunities of my life.
Playing in the UAA really helped me grow as a player physically and realize you have to have more finese in your game to score around bigger defenders.
PrepHoops — Tell us about choosing Creighton. What were some of the factors that led you to choose the Blue Jays.
Mitchell — I chose Creighton because of the style of play they play with. They play fast, get up and down the floor and shoot. I felt it was the best decision to help me grow as a player and help me reach my ultimate goal, which is the NBA. Their coaching staff Is unbelievable and coach Mac (Greg McDermott) puts you in positions to be successful, you just have to put the work in.
PrepHoops — What are some things you’re going to be focused on in the offseason as you get ready to start your college career?
Mitchell — In the off season, the thing I am working on the most, is elevating my release point, and getting stronger and putting on weight. I am also working on lateral quickness, to be able to guard whoever in need to be able to guard at the next level.