Jaiden Donovan '24 Recruiting Profile

From a young age I watched my dad and my older brother play basketball nonstop. Every chance that I got I would be playing with them; whether that be learning how to dribble or even trying to reach the rim. As I got older I started to play on teams for my own age. The first team I played for was my school’s rec league in second grade. Then I started to play more seriously outside of school - playing for my first travel team in third grade. Now, I don’t know how I could ever part from the game.

My older brother recently finished his college basketball experience. Watching him play over the course of these past few years has furthered my desire to take part in the game after High School. I’ve seen how hard he worked at basketball and I strive to do the same. I hope to continue my passion for basketball at the college level and inspire younger generations in my community. 

Basketball to me is more than a sport. It’s about enjoying your teammates, your coaches and meeting new people who have similar interests. Playing basketball has allowed me to develop many life skills that have pushed me to become a better person. I am so grateful for all of the opportunities basketball has given me. Unfortunately, my school population is shrinking and the interest in basketball has declined in my community. I hope that younger kids in my community will have the opportunity to experience basketball in the same way that I have and appreciate the game. That’s why I have decided to start free basketball clinics for the children in my community to encourage young athletes to give basketball a chance. My goal is for the love of basketball to grow and boost respect for the sport. 

In terms of my character, I am driven, motivated, hard working and passionate, which is evident not only in my athletic but also academic success. I strive to challenge myself academically by taking advanced courses. For example, I took AP European History sophomore year and took AP Chemistry, AP Language and Composition, and AP US History in my Junior year. This upcoming school year, my senior year, I plan to take AP Physics, AP Literature, AP World History, AP Spanish, and AP Calculus BC.

I intend to contribute significantly to the basketball program on the court as a dynamic player. I'll put in the effort and contribute on both the offensive and defensive ends as I develop mentally and physically during my time playing collegiate basketball. It is important to me that I behave with honor and respect both on and off the court, as I understand how I handle myself reflects on my team, my coaches, and the school I attend.