Prospect Update: Keaton Kutcher (2021)
Mount Vernon guard Keaton Kutcher has been working hard lately, and it shows.
The 6-foot-2 rising junior has grown a bit since last year, and has become even more of a sharpshooter than he already was. His athleticism and strength has improved, too.
“I’ve been staying in the gym, keeping that jumper consistent. And really lifting a lot, working on upper body strength, speed, explosiveness, stuff like that,” Kutcher said. “But, ya just been staying in the gym for the most part.”
After averaging 12.9 points as a freshman at Mount Vernon, Kutcher upped his scoring average to 20.5 points per game last season as a sophomore. He was among the state’s best sophomore scorers.
“I’d say I was given the keys to the car and I was told that I have to score and I have to bring it every night,” Kutcher said. “And I’m stepping into more of a leader role, and to look for my teammates, grab an extra rebound when I can, stuff like that.”
He added: “I think next year could be a really special year for us, we’ve played in a couple team camps this month and have only lost once. Everyone is starting to get it now, and I can tell that the chemistry is there.”
This July, Kutcher will be back with Martin Bros 16u, one of the best teams in the Midwest. He’s hoping that because the team is so loaded with top prospects, that will enhance everyone’s recruitment on the squad.
“There’s really no downside to playing with them at all, meeting great guys, great players, great teammates. It’s been a blast so far, and I can’t wait to continue it, It’s a great program,” Kutcher said.
Recruitment: Last year, Western Illinois became the first program to offer Kutcher. He says Northern Iowa and Drake have been on him. He mentioned Illinois State, South Dakota State and Iowa have been a little bit interested.
“I’m hoping to just maintain relationships, build new ones, just get my name out there a lot. And then if someone feels like it’s the right move to offer, then that’d be awesome , too,” Kutcher said. “Just whatever steps I can get to (this summer), that’s where I want to get to.”