Recruiting Report: Kevin Bishop (2019)
Just in case Shaker Heights fans forgot about 6’5″ wing/forward Kevin Bishop (2019) after missing all of his sophomore season with a foot injury, he reminded everyone of his ability in the season opener against Warrensville Heights. Bishop had a career night, finishing with 25 points and 20 rebounds.
It wasn’t just Bishop’s numbers though. He looked slimmed down, making him a more dynamic player. It’s no accident. Bishop told us the time on the sidelines gave him perspective.
“It made me appreciate the game more. You never know when the game is going to be taken away from you. So, it just made me appreciate it more,” Bishop said.
He’s been playing since the grassroots season at this point and feels comfortable on the court once again.
While he’s playing better than ever, his recruitment tapered off a bit over the past year or so.
“It slowed down when I had my foot broken. I feel like my freshman year, I had a little bit of interest from Youngstown [State], and that was it really. It slowed down. It’s coming back together a little bit. Ashland is talking to me a little bit and a couple D-IIIs, but nothing crazy,” Bishop said.
Bishop is just restarting the recruitment process, he knows that comfort and academics will be important factors in his decision. Although he plays the forward spot for Shaker, he expects to play on the wing at the next level.
“I play the four and the five, just because my team is undersized. But I feel like I’m a three with a little bit of four in me,” Bishop said.
In order to solidify himself as a perimeter player, Bishop feels improvement with his right hand and feel is important.
“I feel I need to get my IQ together … Be a team player instead of just looking to score. I can set up make my teammates better,” Bishop said.
In regards to that skillset, Bishop was very effective as a straight-line driver last weekend at the Great Lakes Classic. When he wasn’t grabbing defensive rebounds, Bishop was leaking out in their fast-paced offense for outlet passes. In open floor situations, one defender was never enough and Bishop capitalized on high-percentage looks near the rim.
One of his best assets is his strength in the paint, hence the 20 rebounds against Warrensville. It will be interesting to watch Bishop during next grassroots season, when he’ll presumably play a more perimeter game. As of now, Shaker needs him on the boards and defending post players, where he also excels.
Shaker’s next game is tonight at home against Brunswick.