Recruiting Report: Paul O’Leary (2018)
Lemont Power Forward Paul O’Leary had a breakout junior year putting up 14 points 8 rebounds a game. The 6’9 O’Leary was in attendance for the PrepHoopsIllinos Stock up showcase and we had the chance to catch up with O’Leary to talk about his game and plans for the summer as well as scout and evaluate his game. O’Leary is a well-built 6’9 with broad shoulders that attacks the glass for rebounds and is a strong defensive presence in the paint. He plays with a high motor and has good defensive instincts. I liked his ability to really box out and go pin point rebounds. Still a little raw on offense O’Leary does have a soft touch around the rim and can even step out a little and face up and hit shots from the mid-post. Still learning the game this will be his first grassroots season playing with the Illinois Stars. O’Leary is a D2 prospect right now, and will get a lot of attention from D2 schools this summer with a good season and it appears he is poised for a strong summer.
How did your high school season go for you this past year?
“We had to overcome a lot of adversity missing PJ (Pipes) for the first 13 games. That allowed a lot of our younger guys to grow up and get experience in some close games. We played some upper level teams. I learned a lot transition from a rebounder and defender to leading my team in scoring and trying to be a leader on the court.”
“I got a lot better from my sophomore year to junior year and that was my focus”. Always room to improve but I played well with my back to the basket and got hot later in the year from mid-range”. Also finding teammates and getting some assist.
What are some areas that you want to improve on?
“A consistent mid-range jump shot and keeping calm and composed in close tight games being that I am a leader on the team”
What are you looking forward to most about the upcoming grassroots season the Illinois Stars?
“I am looking forward to playing with Barlow Alleruzzo, Jalen Hughes, JJ Flores, and some of the unsigned guys. We have a heck of team. We are all gym rats. Usually after practice we will usually be there 15 or more minutes playing one on one or working on our craft.” “We have a high skilled team that knows how to work on our skills and get each other better”
How do you think you’re playing today at the Stock Up Showcase?
“This camp has gone great. My teammates are working me to get me the ball. I have Michael Salter from Romeoville and a couple younger guys that are getting it to me. Unlike a lot of camps, we are moving the ball and getting everyone touches.”
What’s the latest in recruiting right now?
“I have a D2 offer from Notre Dame College. An NAIA offer from Michigan Dearborn. Interest from Eastern Michigan, Penn, and Cornell.”