Seven Ferguson Talks Mater Academy Basketball, Senior Leadership, Summer
PH: How would you describe the current state of Mater Academy basketball? How would you describe the workload this summer and how has it prepared the younger core for meaningful minutes at the varsity level?
SF: The current state of the team is great. We have a bunch of hungry guys, which the Mater program really hasn’t had in a long time. We have all gotten a lot better individually, bringing more to the table as far as skill sets and strength and shaping ourselves into the team to beat next year.
I take over the leadership role. It’s on me to be the guy that sets the tone on both ends of the court. Having one of the best point guards in Miami right now in Jorge (Becceri), my role offensively is much easier by needing to be in my spots and knowing he’ll find me. It’s been important, showing that to the younger guys. Our third Class of 2019 guy is Felipe Sinelli a combination guard, he can play as a point guard or shooting guard.
He is going to have a major role in a state title run this year. Whether he comes off the bench or starts, he’s going to be vocal leader helping develop Isaiah and Malik (Reneau) into leaders as the season progresses.
PH: How would you describe the system employed by head coach Marcos “Shakey” Rodriguez? As an elder statesmen in this program, how do you help emphasize the style to the younger guys?
SF: Shakes runs a very fast paced offense and defense. Full court press and quick hitters on offense. As seniors we must be the first to come with the energy in games and practice because the younger guys feed off us and really go with our pace.
PH: What’s the team goal for this season? Where is the bar set for this particular group?
SF: The team’s goal is always winning a state championship and nothing less. I feel this team is capable of beating every expectation we have set for ourselves and exceeding them.
PH: If you can pick one memory of the late Malcolm Nicholas III, who starred at Mater before you, what would it be?
SF: My favorite memory definitely was our first workout together. After we were done, we ended up running five on five. On the very first play, Malcolm dropped a kid off the dribble and then instantly tried to body someone down the lane. He just played so tough.