Prospect Spotlight: Carson Passer (2018)
Following a successful 24-4 campaign during the 2016-2017 season, and after graduating two 1,000+ point scorers, it would be reasonable to expect the McGregor Mercuries to take a step back in the upcoming 2017-2018 season.
That’s not how they see it in the McGregor locker room, and a big reason why is 6’1” combo-guard, Carson Passer.
“He has the ability to take over a ball game with his high free-throw percentage and ability to score from anywhere across the timeline” says McGregor Head Coach Josh Wahlin. Passer’s ability to score in volumes is illustrated by his place in the school’s all-time record book, holding the top two single-game records for points scored. As junior, he put up 49 points in a January game against Carleton, and as a sophomore he threw in the school’s all-time record of 53 points against Wrenshall.
While Carson Passer garners a lot of attention for his scoring abilities, Coach Wahlin calls Passer the team’s “everything man,” and Carson also believes he has much more to offer. “My biggest strength would probably have to be shooting, but I also feel I can lead a team, and that my defense has taken a big step forward.”
His defense certainly took a step forward last season, and Wahlin’s assessment rings true. Last season, Passer led the team in assists and steals, and was second in blocks, all while averaging 21.3 points per game (35% from 3-pt.) and shooting 85% from the charity stripe.
Carson didn’t play on the grassroots circuit this summer, as he dedicated more time to improving his strength and quickness. “I’ve put up a lot of shots, and have done a lot of quickness and agility work. I also started Olympic lifting which I hope will make a difference on the court this season” says Passer. His hard work during the offseason has not gone unnoticed, as Coach Wahlin added “he has been putting a lot of time in the weight room. His body is starting to mature and I feel he will be an even better player for us this year.” Carson is playing in a MYAS league this fall through High Impact.
Carson has not finalized any plans for his college career, although he has been in contact with a handful of programs, including Waldorf, Minnesota-Morris, and St. Scholastica. In what he’s looking for in a collegiate fit, Carson says “The biggest thing for me is academics, they have to have the programs I’m looking into. After that it’s just how I feel about the program. Can I connect with the coach, how do the players like the school, etc.?”
When talking about the upcoming season, in true “everything man” fashion, Carson is just focusing on improvement and he puts the team goals ahead of his own stating “Personally I just hope to be better than I was last year, for the team I would like to compete for another conference championship and make it to a section final.”
Carson Passer has established himself as one of the most explosive scorers in Northern Minnesota, look for him to take another step this winter while the McGregor Mercuries look to continue to build on their recent success.