Prospect spotlight: Kaleb Becker (2022)
An incoming freshman at Abilene High School, 6’4 forward Kaleb Becker is hoping he can make his mark on the Cowboys’ program.
A high energy player, Becker takes pride in playing hard and brings a versatile skill set to the floor. He can post up smaller players and has improved his range out beyond the 3-point arc.
He is coming off a strong summer competing with Kansas Pray N Play and says the experience challenged him as a player.
“It’s challenged me to play faster and more physically,” he says. “The practices can be really hard. I think it’s allowed me to be ready to play older players this upcoming season.”
As a youngster, Becker says he mostly played in the post because he was the biggest player on his team. But he has worked hard to improve his perimeter skills in the offseason, spending time working on his ball handling and scoring off the dribble.
Becker says his parents have had the biggest impact on his basketball career to date.
“My Mom and Dad have spent a lot of time taking me all over to play,” Becker says. “Both of them are always willing to take me to the gym and work me out. They push me really hard to be my best. I wouldn’t be the player I am without their help.”
A fan of the Warriors Kevin Durant, Becker says he appreciates his all-around game, but also enjoys watching and learning from players in previous eras as well.
“Durant is my favorite player to watch,” Becker says. “He creates a matchup problem for people who guard him. You can tell he sizes up his opponents and tries to expose them. I try to set my man up before just going at them. I want to be a thinking player like that.
“I also like watching the Bird, Jordan, Bad Boy Pistons era. They were so gritty and physical. I think I have a toughness like those guys.”