Prospect Spotlight: Drake Thompson (2018)
Drake Thompson – 6’8′ | F/C | Blackhawk Christian | Class of 2018
Drake Thompson is eager to get back after his injury last year that put an end to his junior season. Thompson plays his high school ball with Blackhawk Christian (Class 1A). Blackhawk had a great season last year and would have most likely made a State Championship run with a full roster. Drake plays his AAU ball with OPS 2018 under head coach Matt Roth.
Thompson has been patiently awaiting his return. “I just got released by my doctor and should be done with physical therapy in about a week.” With the time off, Drake has been able to take a step-back from basketball and understand what makes him effective on the floor.
With a lower body injury, Drake has had time to work other things. “A lot of shooting. Especially free throws.” Thompson spends a lot of time at the free throw line and is hoping that he will shoot at a high percentage next season. Along with free throws, Thompson is getting back into working on his footwork. “I have been and I’m going to continue to work on my footwork. I want to play every game like it’s my last and take nothing for granted.”
As he gears up for his senior season, Drake knows that this year poses with opportunity to win a State Championship.
Drake will be back playing with OPS in July and is looking forward to the competition. “I’m most looking forward to being able to pay an actual game of basketball.” After all that time off, Thompson is looking forward to the training part and competing with his teammates for a common goal.
Thompson is intrigued by the opportunity to play at the next level. “I’m definitely planning on playing at the next level.” The time off has put a delay in his recruiting process but he is ready to get back into it once the season starts up. July should be a big month for him and his recruiting, especially after the spring that OPS had.
Drake is coming off his junior season in which he averaged 12.9 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks per game. Each of those categories should see an increase this season, especially with 6’9” Jared Hofer playing alongside Thompson down low.
Keep an eye on Thompson and Blackhawk Christian this upcoming season and he pushes himself to play at the next level and take the Braves to State.
Prep Hoops Profile: https://prephoops.com/archived-player/drake-thompson/
Picture via the News Sentinel (2015)