Last weekend at our Phenom Gate City Showcase, we had the opportunity to get an updated viewing of Prince Nwokemodo. The 6-foot-11 sophomore big man continues to showcase the makings of a noteworthy prospect. His combination of length, fluidity, athleticism, and interior ability on both ends of the floor makes him a real problem for opponents. Right now, Nokemodo finds a ton of success through finishing, rebounding, and protecting the rim. He possesses the necessary instincts and mobility to switch, recover, and consistently alter shots as a weak-side defender. Nwokemodo is not bound to the paint, but is at his most valuable when slotted around the basket. Though he’s already shown a lot of visible growth, he still possesses an incredible amount of upside to become a national-level prospect. We sat down to talk to him about his season at Mount Zion, developments as a player, expectations going forward, and differences between America and Nigeria…
JB: Talk about your sophomore season at Mount Zion, what you learned, and how you feel going forward.
PN: Basically, last year I tried to expand my game. My ninth-grade year was all dunks and stuff. I’m just trying to expand my game, working on my midrange and outside game because I know college coaches are looking for more than just a post player. They want someone who can do more. I’m looking to improve my outside game and keep developing as an all-around player.
JB: Who are some guys you watch or model your game after?
PN: Kevin Durant and Anthony Davis. I try to watch guys who are my height and see what they are doing.
JB: How do you see yourself growing as a long-term player?
PN: I see myself continuing to get more confident. I can already handle the ball and stuff, but getting more confident will be important. I don’t have that green light like other players. Right now, I’m good around the basket but I still want to improve my three-point shooting.
JB: Speak a little bit in the difference between the game in America and Nigeria.
PN: I’ve been here for three years. The game in Nigeria is not as serious, since it’s more of a soccer country than basketball country. So, basically, when you are playing basketball in Nigeria you are just doing it for fun. Some of us are just hoping to get here because we know the exposure is much higher. In Nigeria, it’s way different due to the lack of facilities and resources for basketball.
