James Nipper '22 Recruiting Profile

As a hardworking student-athlete, I've always understood that I am a student before I am an athlete that is why I do my best to prioritize and focus on my school work. My Junior year has been very different in a good way and I am proud to say that it is my first year earning A/B honor roll in high school. I will continue to do so until I graduate, in order to improve my GPA. Majority of my classes are AP this year and I am excelling in those classes. 

 On the court, I am always finding ways to increase my basketball IQ. I look for ways to score and assist my teammates. I read the defense and find opportunities to cut off passes. At the beginning of the season I struggled with fouls, but I've improved my defense since then. I respect and listen to my coaches and I've learned that by doing so allows the entire team to have opportunities to score. If I am not in the game physically, I am on the sideline observing all players and plays so that I won't skip a beat when I get in the game. 

I’m very humble, but at the same time I have a hunger for this game and that is why will do what it takes to win. I'm  also loyal, respectful, well-mannered, and fun! My biggest thing is to always have fun when I am on the court and to make sure my teammates are doing the same. I learn from mistakes that I make and I take correction the way a young basketball player should. I never quit or give up and my support system is constantly pushing me to be better. 

Having those qualities is what any college basketball coach would desire in their players. Just as a building needs a strong foundation to stand tall, having a strong foundation will lead to a successful college basketball program. I understand that I am young and I know more development is required, but I am sure that my foundation is solid. I have loved the game of basketball since I was 5 years old and each year ever since with the help of God and my family support, I've improved tremendously. With the help of a great college athletic program, I am sure to be even better, contribute to the basketball program, and achieve my dreams of playing in the NBA.