Prospect Spotlight: Grant Rieker (2020)

Valley has had a wealth of talent at every position for the better part of a decade, Grant Rieker is another in a long lineage of standout guards that could shine for the Tigers next season.

The 6-foot-3 rising senior has always been a good shooter, but he’s been working to diversify his skill-set over the past few months. Valley fans can expect a well-rounded veteran guard with Rieker next winter. 

“I think over the years I’ve kind of always been labeled as a shooter, but definitely over the years I’ve been trying to work on other aspects of my game so I can help my team the best I can,” Reiker said.

“I’ve been really working on handling the ball, and definitely defense. I’m getting to the rim a lot better, I’m getting stronger and taller a little bit.”

Last season, Rieker played minimally for the 18-5 Tigers, he averaged 2.9 points in 14 games. 

“I think last year was kind of like a learning experience for me, just to get my feet wet with varsity basketball,” Rieker said. “This year, I have a lot more confidence in myself and my ability, and I’m just excited to have a good season, I feel like we have a good team.”

Since third grade, Rieker was a loyal member of the Kingdom Hoops organization. He said the program played a critical role in his development as a player. 

“I’ve been there since third grade, and I’ve always liked them,” Rieker said. “And each summer I’ve improved my game and gotten a lot better.”

This weekend, rather than play with Kingdom Hoops 17U Navy in their final tourney, Rieker will attend a Prep Hoops Circuit Prospects Camp in Minneapolis. One that’s catered to players who are potential D2, D3 and NAIA-type guys. 

Recruitment: “I talked to a couple smaller D2 and D3 schools and I plan on going to some camps,” said Rieker. “And I definitely want to play at the next level, so I’m excited to keep talking to schools.”