Recruiting Report: Jack Thompson (2019)
Jack Thompson of St Thomas is easily one of the slipperiest lead guards in the state of Minnesota’s 2019 class plus Thompson has outstanding vision.
Thomas is coming off an outstanding 16u year with Minnesota Select where he made a name for himself while leading his team to a 30 win season against a difficult slate of opponents.
“I think the AAU season went well,” Jack told Prep Hoops. “My biggest take away would be that you have to compete game in and game out because of how good other players and teams are out there.”
Playing against a difficult NY2LA and SPTS schedule Thompson learned his game needs to improve in a few different ways if he wants to take desired steps.
“I’m trying to improve my shot off of the dribble and also trying to get in the weight room as much as possible to get stronger,” Thompson said.
The Cadets made the state tournament and went 24-8 in the first season under new Head Coach Jason Birr. Talent was lost to graduation but there is enough back for the Cadets to make another run.
“We lost a really good senior class but I think we have lots of guys ready to come up and fill those roles,” Jack explained. “Our team goals are to win our conference and then make it to the state championship game this year.”
St. Thomas Academy won the Breakdown Summer State Tournament so the talent is definitely there. Thompson is hearing from three schools the most right now.
“I’ve heard from Southwest Minnesota State, Jamestown, and St. John’s and then gotten some stuff in the mail from some others too.”
What is next for the fall for Jack?
“I’m just trying to get in the gym and weight room as much as I can,” Thompson explained. “The captains are also doing a good job of getting everyone to all the open gyms.”
Thompson’s basketball growth has a lot to do with his own work ethic but he’s picked up a lot from those around him and from his favorite basketball players.
“Personally last season Sam Schlper who was out starting point guard and captain, he really took me under his wing and we worked out together a lot and he taught me a lot about how hard you have to work if you want to reach your goals,” Jack said.
“My favorite player right now would have to be Devin Booker but all time it would be Steve Nash because of how well he competed and how he would never back down from anyone. Also how he was a great teammate to everyone and just a great person off the court as well.”