Prospect Watch: Austin Thompson (2018)
Class of 2018 point guard Austin Thompson of MICDS has taken somewhat of a reverse role to becoming a college prospect.
While most kids grow up with the ball in their hands as bucket-getters, the 6’2″ Thompson took a liking to the defensive side of the ball. He enjoyed the challenge on taking on those top bucket-getters. With his size, explosive athletic ability and 6’8″ wingspan, Thompson has developed into an elite defender who can take on fast point guards or bigger wing players alike.”
“What makes me successful on defense is that fact that I want to play defense,” Thompson said. “You just have to have the desire to stop someone in front of you. Another big thing is I rely on my anticipation. I react based on what I think is going to happen. I don’t wait for it to happen.”
In the past year of his career, Thompson has grown his offensive game to where he has become an athletic slasher who can knock down mid-range jumpers on a consistent basis. His 3-point shooting has also improved as well. He currently plays for Missouri Team Carroll during the grassroots season, which has enjoyed a successful spring. Team Carroll’s open style of play has helped Thompson come out of his offensive shell and put his improved perimeter skills on display. It has helped him earn his first collegiate offer from Division II Maryville University. Thompson has also received interest from schools such as Missouri Western, UMSL, Quincy and South Dakota.
“Team Carroll has been fun because it’s a free-flowing offense and we’re allowed to showcase what we can do and break down defenders,” Thompson said. “We like to run and get up and down the court. It has helped me change my mindset. Now, I’m looking to make a play for myself or my teammates when I step on the floor.”
A varsity player since his freshman year, Thompson averaged 8.4 points, 4.6 rebounds and four assists a game as a junior in helping the Rams to a 19-9 record and the Metro League championship. With the Rams graduating its top two scorers, Thompson will be looked up to carry a big offensive load as a senior.
“Everyday in the gym, I’m shooting 300 to 400 3-pointers a day,” he said. “I also work to tune up my mid-range jump shot to make sure it’s tight and I’m always working on my ball handling and finishing at the rim.”