Emerging Prospect: Zach Cleveland (2022)
A prospect we didn’t know a ton about until we dived into his Hudl film from his sophomore year was Normal Community forward Zach Cleveland Zach Cleveland 6'8" | PF Normal West | 2022 State IL . At 6’6” he…
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Continue ReadingA prospect we didn’t know a ton about until we dived into his Hudl film from his sophomore year was Normal Community forward Zach Cleveland Zach Cleveland 6'8" | PF Normal West | 2022 State IL . At 6’6” he is a face up four man who has major bounce! That was shown off several times at the beginning of the video. Loves reverse layups attacking on the baseline. Even caught one lob that he finished with one hand on the opposite side. Quick and aggressive moves with the ball in his hands. Can hit a three and has an excellent fade away game out of the post.
We caught up with Cleveland to discuss his game, travel team change, and recruitment in this Intro: Zach Cleveland Zach Cleveland 6'8" | PF Normal West | 2022 State IL (2022)!
Breakdown your game for me and what you believe your strengths are as a player?
“I would say my strength is my versatility. Especially over the summer improving my shot and ball handling. I can guard multiple positions, rebound, pass well, and score. So just being able to do everything from playing inside and out. Also my high motor. I’ve always been told I have a high motor and play extremely hard.”
What are you doing currently during this fall and winter time with no high school basketball to improve your game?
“Just been in the gym working on my craft every day at my gym. As well as some runs on the weekends. Also been in the weight room a lot to get bigger.”
Talk about your decision to make the move over to the Illinois Hoopstars for next spring on the travel team circuit.
“I chose that for the reasons of I believe Coach (Julian) Williams has a good plan for me to develop as a player. Also to play the best competition that I can so I can go up against the top players.”
What is going on with recruiting? Do you have any offers? What schools are you actively talking to the most?
“I have made contact with a good amount of schools and have been getting mail. I have an offer from SEMO. I have been talking to St. Louis, South Dakota State, Nebraska-Omaha, Purdue Fort Wayne, and Robert Morris the most recently.”
What do you like about SEMO?
“A great new coaching staff. Competitive winning mentality and a great place to get my attention as well as a good fit for my play style.”
Lastly what will be important in a college program?
“A coaching staff I enjoy. A place I fit in well as a player. At the most competitive I can play at.”
Check out Cleveland’s highlights from last season below.
https://www.hudl.com/video/3/12054185/5e78275c23473e142c63344a