Recruiting Report: Drake Dobbs (2020)

As a freshman Eden Prairie guard Drake Dobbs stepped forward to give the Eagles 11 plus a game.  That was just the beginning. Dobbs joined Eagles teammates Austin Andrews and Connor Christensen on the D1 Minnesota 15u team this spring/summer and helped the team to consistent national recognition all season. "The highlights of my season were getting to play with new teammates on a higher competition level," Drake told Prep Hoops.  "My game improved in multiple ways. "First, my vision increased immensely as I had to distribute more often because our team had so many guys that could finish easily. Secondly, my communication and leadership grew a ton because as the point guard I have to tell everyone on the court what is going on. Lastly, my speed really increased dramatically, as I felt faster than many of the opposing teams we faced." Dobbs also learned that against a high level of competition there are things he must improve to consistently be one of the best. "My greatest focus is increasing speed, explosiveness, and gaining weight. Also another focus is separating myself with my dribbling skills, and how well I can shoot off the dribble." EP losses top scorer Owen Chose but returns several key pieces including Andrews, Dobbs, Kyler Kluge, Christensen, and Antonio Montero.  Expectations are there. "This year we have a super talented group," Drake said.  "I think that we have a great shot at making a deep run into the state tournament. Our team this year will be able to play fast, and really get it done on the defensive end. We have a couple of talented players coming back this year that know our system and will be able to get us off to a great start. "My goal is to obviously win the state championship, but also be one of the best defensive teams in the state." College programs that follow Minnesota, that saw the Dobbs box scores, and that watched some D1 Minnesota 15u teams are now calling Drake to get in early on his recruitment. "I'm hearing from Northern Iowa, Iowa state, Iowa, Creighton, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Davidson, and George Mason," Dobbs said. "They have all contacted my AAU coach. I am visiting  Northern Iowa this Saturday on an unofficial visit. I would like to see Creighton, Iowa, and Iowa State the most. Minnesota invited me to a game last year as an unofficial guest." Before heading to Cedar Falls, Iowa this weekend Drake is likely taking in some NBA action as he watches several stars to help his game develop. "Russell Westbrook and Jason Williams have had the greatest impact on my game. The passion and the speed of Russell's game had taught me to continuously play fast and be passionate. Jason Williams has taught me to play with some swag in my game and to not be afraid of anyone. Russell Westbrook is my favorite player because he's so passionate about what he does and he's just so fun to watch."