The game of basketball has been the most influential gift that I’ve ever received. It began in Alexandria, Virginia at a very young age with casual walks with my dad to the store dribbling a basketball. Growing up, I watched my dad play in numerous summer leagues which enhanced  my love for the game of basketball even more. Basketball courts soon were where I spent many afternoons and evenings. I instantly fell in love with the process of becoming a great player. I knew if I wanted to make my dream of playing professional basketball a reality, I would have to outwork my opponent.  Therefore,  I put everything I had into my development.

Coming up through the AAU and middle school ranks I always envisioned myself playing in the WCAC. The best conference for high school basketball in the country. I would get this opportunity attending Bishop O’Connell. I received the structure to become a student of the game when I got to O’Connell. Working countless hours with assistant coach Scott McClary became routine. I was privileged to be apart of nationally rank teams that won a lot of games. During this time, I received many individual accolades that was a result of all the hard work I had put in.  I was fortunate to be named First Team All Met, Fairfax Journal Northern Region Player of the Year, and First Team All State.

After O’Connell I had over a dozen Division 1 athletic scholarships. I chose to attend St. Bonaventure University. This was a new challenge that I had been working toward for my whole life. Once again, I  attempted to outwork my competitor. Coming in as a freshman I quickly realized that I would have to take my work ethic to another level if I wanted to be successful. Guys we’re now bigger, stronger, and faster so I needed to adjust to the speed of the game. Because of my hard work and dedication, I had a stellar career at St.Bonaventure where I would become an all conference player and an 1,000 point scorer. This led me to a 9 year professional basketball career. I never could have imagined playing basketball professionally in another country. This experience truly shaped me for the next steps in my life.

I am now fortunate to be able to participate in basketball training with Evolution  because it gives me the opportunity to share my experiences and give back to the youth.