Prospect Spotlight: Zach Kelch (2018)
(Photo Credit: Cincinnati Enquirer)
Zach Kelch is coming off a junior season that saw him help a relatively young team (two seniors scored in double-digits, including Union University commit J.C. Hawkins) go 15-14, winning 8 out of their first 10 games of the season. The 6’9 big man spoke with PHKY about his junior year and what’s to come, including his summer with adidas Gauntlet Gold Circuit program Twenty Two Vision.
“Our high season didn’t go as quite we expected,” said Kelch. “We were definitely a better team than how we played. We lost in the first round of our district tournament, so unfortunately we didn’t achieve any of our team goals.” Kelch did say one of the individual goals he had going into his junior season was to become a better leader. “I think I accomplished that, but I still have room improvement.” Kelch finished the high school season averaging 13 points and 4 rebounds per game. Kelch shot over 60% from the field.
Playing for Twenty Two Vision this AAU season, Kelch went into detail about what the experience has been for him thus far. “The Gauntlet is unreal. Playing in front of legendary college coaches is a thing not many people can say and it’s a great experience. Playing with Twenty Two Vision has increased my confidence and my all around game.” Kelch had a very solid performance against Ramey Jets United. In that game he scored 6 points and grabbed 6 rebounds.
At the moment Kelch doesn’t hold any offers. Lately he has heard from Army-West Point Military Academy and Air Force. He had some interest from Lipscomb and Lincoln Memorial (NCAA D-II) earlier in the year.
Kelch mentioned to PHKY that the “level of play” (high major, mid major, low major, etc.) isn’t as big of a deal to him as the value of education he receives and the basketball program being the right fit. “I definitely want to go to a school that is good for me and my family.”
This off-season, Kelch says he plans on improving his all-around game. “One key thing is increasing my strength and post work. I’ll also be working on my ball handling, footwork, and my outside shot. Like I said earlier – leadership for my high school team is a major key for our team’s success, so I’ll continue to work on my leadership skills.”
You can continue to find Zach playing with Twenty Two Vision this AAU season.