Scott Talks Recruiting, Westminster’s balance, and uptempo attack
In this article:
- As the cornerstone of reigning 2017 4A state champion Westminster, Miami native Zach Scott is a marked man.As an innate playmaker with a certifiable knack for crunch time production, Scott added to his legacy with a buzzer-beating half court prayer which sent Westminster to a 72-69 2OT victory over North Miami Senior High at the Hoophall Classic.
While Scott led the balanced, speedball attack with a game-best 26 points, he had plenty of help.
Guard Chase Johnston, who Westminster head coach Ehren Wallhoff refers to as “the best shooter in the state,” scored 20 points and bagged timely 3-pointers as Westminster erased the deficit in the fourth quarter.
Dudley Blackwell, a 6-foot-5 off guard, added 16 points.
We caught up with Scott, the Florida Gulf Coast University-commit, to discuss the areas of strength for this experienced and battle-tested Westminster team.
PH: How would you describe the identity of this year’s team? Which factors will enable you guys to have success in 2017-18?
ZS: It starts with guard play. We have very good guards. We can defend well and then get out on the break and get easy baskets.
PH: The 2OT win over North Miami exemplified the team’s balance and wealth of scoring options. How would you describe the depth and readiness of this squad?
ZS: Pretty much everyone returning from last year is playing a bigger role than before. I think we have done a good job adjusting to these new roles.
PH: What style and system is employed by coach Wallholf? What are the key principles he emphasizes out there on the court?
ZS: I think this year, coach is more big on defense first. He wants us to make the stop defensively first and then the defense will turn into offense.
Offense is the easy part of the game for us. Coach really just wants us to get out in transition and to get the easy fast break points we know we are capable of.
PH: Which key factors sold you on FGCU and how do you envision yourself evolving as a playmaker in the Atlantic Sun?
ZS: Coach (Joe) Dooley was very straightforward with me and it felt like they had the best interest in me all the way through.
I feel like it’s going to be a fun experience when I get there. I know they will put me in the best position to have success.