Prospect Update: Casey Kleemeier (2019)
With a big July ahead of him, Winterset’s Casey Kleemeier is a guy that will have a lot of eyes on him.
So far it’s been Division III and NAIA coaches that have shown him some love, and he’s hoping to continue and see that interest increase as the July live periods draw nearer.
“Recruiting has picked up slightly the last month or so, but really hoping to bump it up after July. I’ve been playing at open gyms at Grandview, and talking to Dordt and Briar Cliff,” said Kleemeier
He’s been playing with Kingdom Hoops-Mosley and Kingdom Hoops-Stinson this spring, both are among the best AAU teams in Iowa.
“17U season has been going pretty well so far, definitely excited to get going again in July,” said Kleemeier. “We have a few big tournaments to close out and try to play as well as possible, and I’m hoping to spike my recruiting however I can.”
Already a prolific shot-maker — Kleemeier averaged 14.2 points per game as a junior — he’s hoping to improve his shooting percentages next season for the Huskies. That’s his main priority this offseason, improving his jumper in as many ways as he can.
“I’ve really been working on making my shot more consistent, just getting up as many shots up as possible, both off the dribble and off of the catch,” said Kleemeier.
In addition to the high scoring last season, the 5-foot-10 combo-guard was Winterset’s leader in both assists and steals. Kleemeier, along with Easton Darling, are big reasons why the Huskies were able to win 17 games and advance to a Substate final.
“My junior year went very well. It was one of the best seasons Winterset has had in a really long time. Even being a junior with a lot of seniors, I had a big leadership role. I was looked on to score a lot and also do the majority of handling the ball and guarding the best opposing player,” said Kleemeier.
Next year, in addition to again being the team’s engine, Kleemeier’s leadership will be critical to Winterset’s success.
“Next year, my role will change a little bit. Basically everything I was asked to do last year will be amplified a little bit more. I’ll be asked to score more and rebound more. It’s going to be huge to lead and keep the guys moving in the right direction.”
Casey Kleemeier is ranked by Prep Hoops as a top 75 prospect in his class.