Recruiting Report: Chester Makoi (2019)
When hearing of a new transfer that will shake up the basketball landscape in Virginia, it’s important to do your research to find out where the kid comes from, his past experience, who he has played for, etc. You can…
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Continue ReadingWhen hearing of a new transfer that will shake up the basketball landscape in Virginia, it’s important to do your research to find out where the kid comes from, his past experience, who he has played for, etc.
You can imagine my surprise when I hear about a new 6’9” transfer to Williamsburg Christian who came from Alaska. That’s right, Alaska. After doing my research on Chester Makoi I found out that not only is he truly from Alaska, but he’s coming in to join a stacked class of big men in the 2019 class.
Makoi transferred to Williamsburg Christian in late August, and has since reclassified to the sophomore class. At 6’9” the first thing you see is how skinny he is, but he also has tremendous length that allows him to block shots. Offensively is where he really stands out, because he can score with his back to the basket or step out and hit the 18-20 footer, all while being able to attack closeouts and handle it in transition.
In Alaska, he was always one of the most talented and hardest players to match up with on the floor. While things aren’t much different now, he says the way that everyone plays here is one of the toughest parts about the transition.
“The competition is a lot different down here, everyone is more physical and everyone wants it more,” Makoi said. “The adjustment was hard at first, but it’s getting easier, just getting the work in. I think our team is going to be pretty good this year.”
Despite the better competition, Makoi should have a chance to demonstrate more of what he can do as an inside-out presence. He’s by far the tallest player on Williamsburg Christian, and the first big man they’ve had in at least three years, so he’ll have the chance to show all of the assets he brings to the table.
“I actually have a bigger role now, because down here I’m the only big,” Makoi said. “This isn’t my real position, but I’m a much bigger piece here than in Alaska because we had multiple bigs. But it’s been a lot more fun down here with my teammates so far.”
Makoi’s high ceiling and versatility has already caught the eyes of college coaches. He picked up a recent offer from Hampton, and he claims interest from Southern Utah, Morgan State, Norfolk State, ODU, Longwood and more.
Along with continuing to build his recruitment, Makoi also feels like he’s in a good place to make a splash in the high school scene in Virginia as well.
“My goal with Williamsburg Christian is to get better every day, and win a state championship. As for individually, I’d like to play at the collegiate level and see if this can possibly take me professionally.”
Be sure to keep an eye out for Williamsburg Christian, who finished as the VISAA Division 3 runner up last season. With a big man that cause mismatches like Makoi, there should be no question that they are an early season favorite to not only make it back to the championship, but possibly win it as well.