Player Spotlight- Grant Heileman (2018)
Grant Heileman, a 6’7 stretch four, from Sheridan High School, is one of those guys who is set up to have a breakout summer and senior year. The forward is running with OH-NOVA this spring and has the spring off to a great start. He is a two sport athlete and the toughness he gained from football comes out on the basketball court.
Heileman has everything you want in a stretch four good size, quick feet, long range shooting, and strong aggressive defense. He is 6’7 that you can tell has spent some time in the weight room and this is why he can guard 6’10-7 footers. When asked about why his defense was one of his best attributes as a player he described it one word “Physical.” He says, “ I can push other bigs off the block.” He is quick enough and athletic enough to alter shots at the rim, “on defense I am in the right position for the guards all the time.”
When asked about his offensive skill set he talked about his IQ and shooting ability the most. “I make the right decision in the right situation,” said Heileman. He passes out of the post extremely well and finds shooters. He also scores around the paint very well with drop steps, pump fakes, and while finishing through contact. His best attribute offensively is his ability to stretch the floor, “Not many 6’7 forwards can stretch the floor how I can. I can pull taller guys away from the rim and give my guards a chance to drive.” He stretches the floor so well because of his efficiency from three this year. His dad has been keeping stats for the team and Grant has been shooting 46% from three this year.
While talking to him about what he plans on doing to continue to improve he says he has been working with a trainer to continue to get stronger but also obtain as many guard skills as possible. His main goal in the end is to be able to play the 3 position. He shoots on the gun and does a lot of two ball dribbling work trying to tighten up his handels. Although he has no offers yet, he should draw a lot of attention from college coaches as the summer continues.