Recruiting Report: John Nordberg (2018)
Six-foot-5 John Nordberg has played just about every position on the court for his various basketball teams over the last months, when he wasn’t winning on the football field.
Nordberg shot 47 percent from the floor this winter scoring 12.6 points per game while also collecting 5.8 rebounds as combo forward.
“I think this winter was definitely a learning experience for me,” John told PHD. “I had to become comfortable with the speed of varsity basketball and also had to take on the challenge of playing big because of our team’s lack of size.
“This season had a lot of ups and downs, especially with Coach Dekok’s health situation. I think we really came to together as a family towards the end of the season and finished the year off strong.”
St. Mary’s was an 11-14 team but one of those wins will stick with the team and serve as an example of what they are capable of.
“Something that will stick with me forever was upsetting Dickinson in the WDA tournament. The atmosphere was so cool, and it’s something I’ll never forget.”
Norberg wants to get better with his back to the basket over the off-season.
“I’ve been working to improve my post-up game, also my interior defense. Rebounding has also been an emphasis,” John said.
“One challenge right away was trying to figure out how we wanted to play as a team,” John said. “It took a while to figure out how we would have to play as a unit for our team to be successful.
“I also think I’ve faced some great competition that really brings out the best in me. Playing against the tough competition shows me that there’s always room to improve my game.”
John is also a standout football player for St. Mary’s. Potentially a college football player. Or college hoops.
“I haven’t really made my mind up yet. I’ve been considering playing college basketball or football, but I’m kind of just keeping my options open at this point.”
College? It can wait. State tournaments and state titles is what John is thinking for the next year.
“One of my main goals is to make the state tournament this year,” John said. “Last year we were one win away from making it. We were all pretty upset, but I think we all really want to make that happen. Then in football I’m hoping to end my high school career with another state championship.”