Prospect spotlight: Mitchell Woodward (2018)
WICHITA, Kan. — An inside-out forward, Kapaun Mt. Carmel 2018 Mitchell Woodward is putting together a strong offseason for the Wichita Padres.
A 6’4, 205-pound forward, Woodward has good size and athleticism and has a well rounded skill set that allows him to bring the ball up the floor, to defend the post and has good footwork at the offensive end of the court.
This past season he helped Kapaun Mt Carmel accomplish a City League championship for the first time since the 1970s. Woodward finished third in the league in scoring and Mt Carmel had three of the top five scorers in the city.
The team went 17-4 and eventually fell in state sub-state in a thrilling 103-102 five overtime game.
“It was a great feeling for us because of what we were able to accomplish,” Woodward said. “I feel like I really improved my game not only as an offensive threat, but as a defender too. Defense is something I tried to focus on this year as I would always have a tough matchup and couldn’t afford to be allowing my man to score.”
Woodward says competing for the Padres has helped his game grow and has given him a platform to compete in front of college coaches.
“This summer has been enjoyable because of the bond our team shares,” he said. “I like how we go under the radar and people overlook us. We aren’t sponsored by any big name brands or have the nicest jerseys. So when people see they are playing the Wichita Padres they think they will have an easy game.
“But we always seem to surprise people with how well we play the game. I look forward to competing at a high level the rest of the summer. I expect to continue to develop my game this summer and hopefully catch the eye of more colleges.”
Woodward says Padres’ coach Tyler Keim has had the biggest impact on his basketball career to date. He began playing for Keim in seventh grade when the team was formed in 2014 and has maintained a close relationship ever since.
“He is always pushing me as he knows what I am capable of,” Woodward said. “But our relationship doesn’t end at the player-coach level and that is what means the most to me. My coach is not only forming me into a better player, but into a better person.”
A fan of NBA forward Kevin Love, Woodward says he sees some of himself in the Cavs big man.
“He (Love) can be effective in the post and off the ball. He uses his body well and establishes good position when boxing out,” Woodward said. “These are all things that can make me an effective player and help me make an impact when I am on the court.”
Although he currently does not hold any offers, Woodward has drawn a lot of interest from Bethany and plans to visit the campus in the fall. He has also heard from Emporia State, Washburn and Cornell.