Prospect Spotlight: Carson Becicka (2019)
The 2016-2017 season for the Mesabi East Giants did not go as planned, as injuries piled up early, and they struggled to finish the season with an 11-15 record and a first-round playoff loss.
Perhaps the most difficult injury they had to overcome early on was to their point guard, Carson Becicka. On the first day of practice last season, Becicka broke his wrist, an injury that would sideline him for the first 17 games of the season.
Upon his return, it was evident what they had been missing, as Becicka averaged 15 PPG and 5 assists the remainder of the season.
Once the season ended, it was back to work for Carson, as he spent the summer playing for the Minnesota Heat. Regarding his experience this summer, he said “I had a great time playing for Minnesota Heat in the AAU program. I learned so much from my coaches and playing at a high level.”
Carson is a leader for the Giants both on and off the court, when asked what his greatest strength is, he said “My biggest asset is my love for basketball and the positive energy I bring to the court every day.”
Mesabi East head coach Dan Darbo agrees that Becicka possesses many intangibles that make him a great leader. “Carson is a very unique kid” he added “his work ethic is the best I have ever seen, the energy he brings every time is just unbelievable.”
Like most great point guards, he has the intangibles, but he backs them up with a very solid skill set. He has a quick first step that can get him to the basket, or create for teammates. Coach Darbo expects big things for his point guard this season, saying “He will average 15-20 points per game, and will probably be among the state leaders in assists per game.”
Becicka has high expectations for this year’s Giants team, saying “We have a fast, athletic team with good height. We’ve been getting in the gym in the morning and everyone is working hard. As a team, we have so much potential and our goal is to achieve 20 wins.”
Going into his junior year, Becicka says that he has been in contact with a handful of colleges, and has attended a camp at Northland College. Becicka is a strong student who is at the top of his class, and adds “I am looking for a strong academic school with unique opportunities and features.”
Coach Darbo adds “Only good things are going to happen to Carson. He is simply a coach’s dream.” Wherever Becicka lands in the fall of 2019, that team will be getting a solid young man who will be a leader for their squad, both on and off the court.
***Photo Credit: Mark Sauer, Mesabi Daily News***