Justin Thompson '17 Recruiting Profile

Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Justin James Thompson and I am the son of Stacy Pickett and Lester Thompson, both of who have careers in law enforcement. My parents’ share similar careers, but was raised in completely different cultures.  My mother was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY and my father was born in Panama City, Panama.  I have an older brother that I rely heavily on, even though he is in another state, he is only a phone call away.  I do have other siblings from my father side as well, but I am particularly close with my brother, which I consider to be my ROCK.  Mom and dad are divorced, but I am one of the lucky ones who has the support of both parents. I feel that what you experience in life matters to who you are.  Even though many of my friends have similar background, with mixed culture, we are all unique in our individual family relationships.

Throughout my educational experience I have attended eight schools, not by my choosing. My friends have dubbed me “King of school Closings”. Each of the schools that I attended and closed were an experience I will never forget.  I have made friends there that hopefully will last a lifetime.  I consider myself lucky because I was able to make these friendships. God sends us places as part of His plan for us and I feel He knows what He is doing.  I am currently attending a school that almost closed, just before my senior year.  Luckily the money was raised to keep it open. I have had the good fortune of playing two consecutive years for the same team in basketball.  I have had to adapt not only to new schools, but also the transportation to get there and to the new teams and players.  I have played since I was six years old and have had my mother supporting me every step of the way.  She has filmed me so my brother could review the video with me and point out ways to improve.  My family support is not only in the area of basketball. My mother and grandmother, along with my brother and father are always encouraging me on the court and in the classroom, telling me to concentrate, take my time and believe in myself, “you can do it!”   

I have had to transition to new schools many more times than most students, so I am confident my adjustment to college life will not be difficult. 

I know the years of encouragement from my family, coaches, teachers and classmates will echo in my head as I continue my educational and basketball career in college.