Recruiting Report: Antonio Rizzuto (2018)
After playing a key role for Northeastern (PA) during their memorable season, York Ballers guard Antonio Rizzuto is translating his recent success into his final AAU campaign. Not only does Rizzuto handle his business in the classroom, where he maintains an impressive 3.8 GPA. Rizzuto gets it done in a variety of ways on both ends of the court as well.
“I’m a pretty good shooter. Athletic. Fearless on the court. Can finish strong around the basket, and I have a super drive to win,” Rizzuto stated when asked to describe his game.
Rizzuto made 101 threes during his junior season at Northeastern, and connected on 46% of his attempts. While many players would be happy with those numbers, Rizzuto is clearly hungry for more.
“If I can keep that going or even improve on it, I would be very satisfied,” he said about his shooting numbers. Rizzuto understands the importance of continuing to improve and grow as a player. He believes that two of the most improved aspects of his game are his strength, and ball-handling.
“Both are important for my growth as a player,” Rizzuto said, and he added that he is still working on his ball handling as well as being able to get his shot off quicker.
'18 Antonio Rizzuto (@bballplayer1201) of @yorkballers Highlights from tonight at #PittJamFest @HGSL_HoopGroup pic.twitter.com/QHqK0FxzbV
— Hoop Group (@TheHoopGroup) April 29, 2017
What’s one thing Rizzuto does on the court that he believes often goes unnoticed?
“My defense for sure. I like diving on the floor for loose balls, and taking lots of charges. Beside those things, I think I’m a pretty good teammate getting everyone involved in the game.”
Rizzuto was offered by Boston University and NJIT yesterday, but also holds offers from Albany, Stony Brook, High Point, Columbia, and Mount St. Mary’s. St. Joes, George Mason, Delaware, Davidson, Drexel, and UMBC are among the schools who have reached out to Rizzuto since the Pitt Jam Fest, and could begin actively recruiting him soon. What does Rizzuto believe he can bring to a college program?
“I work really really hard, and defend well, so I know that I can make a difference to any program right away. My shooting ability will also help.”