Kansas Newcomers: Tradition Passed Down
“I was holding onto the car door crying as my Dad pried my fingers off of the car to usher me into practice” said Leonards Miglinieks. Leonards recounted his first exposure to basketball for me in his home country of Latvia.
There are many kids who dream of coming to America in general and a select few get the opportunity. An even smaller number of those kids come over the play a sport they love with the opportunity to continue their playing career into college while obtaining a college education unlike anywhere else in the world.
When they do come, their stories are typically worth sharing.
Leonards Miglinieks
Leonards clearly decided to continue playing basketball after his comical first practice and has made it to the United States to pursue a college career and education.
Originally from Riga, Latvia, this 6’3” Combo Guard has chosen to do a prep year at Sunrise Christian Academy and reclassify to 2018.
“My best attribute would definitely be my court vision” said Leonards, a trait that he inherited from his father.
“My father (Raimonds Miglinieks) played at UC Irvine and led the nation in assists before going onto play professionally in Russia and Poland.”
Leonards has been playing basketball for over 10 years and is concentrated on finding a school next year that will help him grow as a basketball player as he has dreams of playing professionally as well.
“My dad’s brother (Igors Miglinieks) was a Gold Medal Champion in the 1988 Seoul Olympics so our family has a rich history of basketball tradition. I’m looking to continue that tradition.”
Mathew Sanchez
Mathew Sanchez made the journey to Wichita, KS from Lugo, Spain to spend his prep year at Sunrise Christian Academy.
This 6’2” guard has dreamed of playing in the United States and going to college at a school that pushes him to be his best self and grow as a person and player.
Much like Leonards, Mathew comes from basketball tradition. His father (Manel Sanchez) played on Spain’s 1981-1982 National Team and mother played at a high level as well.
“My parents pushed me towards the game of basketball. After one year of playing soccer to fit in, I then switched to play basketball and fell in love” said Mathew.
Mathew has a higher purpose outside of basketball while he is here as well.
“My parents own a basketball store in Lugo (Spain) and I’d like to help expand that after getting a college education here” stated Mathew.
Mathew describes himself as a “shooter” and is using this year to ensure he is physically prepared for the college game in America.
Although brand new to the states, both Leonards and Mathew’s skill set would translate to the Division II level currently.