Prospect Spotlight: Darius Hopkins (2018)
Darius Hopkins is going to take on a key role at Seffner Christian this upcoming season.
The rising senior guard will move into the starting lineup with nine seniors graduating from a team that went 24-7 and all the way to the Class 4A state semifinals.
Hopkins says he learned intangibles the most this past season, being a leader, always playing hard and understanding the game.
“I realized that I won’t score 30 points a game; but what else am I doing to be a factor,” Hopkins told Prep Hoops Florida. “The part that grew the most while playing at Seffner was simply learning the game better. The coaches helped me understand a good shot and a bad shot and although I struggled with it at times, I improved as time went on.”
As a combo guard, the 6’1″, 197-pounder is comfortable playing with both positions. Hopkins certainly flashed that ability last weekend, scoring 29 points for the Tampa Titans at the Disney Easter Classic. He struck from outside and caught fire in the second half.
“I’m focusing on improving my game and gaining interest from college coaches this summer,” Hopkins said. “I believe I can play at the next level and I’m working hard to reach my goals.”
In his first year with the Titans, Hopkins said he is glad he chose to play with them.
“The coaches allow me to play and they are helping me grow as a guard,” he said.
Hopkins starting playing basketball at the age of 3. He says a basketball has been in his hands ever since.
In terms of his biggest strengths, he pointed to his ability to get to the basket and facilitate for others.
Hopkins wants to become more consistent all around.
No offers have come yet for him, but Hopkins he has drawn interest from Penn, University of Tampa and Stony Brook.
In a rotational role, Hopkins impressed as a junior. He’s taking over the reigns at Seffner Christian this fall and with a good summer ahead for him with the Titans, his stock will rise. Hopkins has a bright basketball IQ and is someone who is really active on both ends.