Prospect Spotlight: Ike Book (2019)
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — A year ago, St. Joseph Lafayette 2019 wing Ike Book played a key role for the Fighting Irish as they recovered from a tough start to the season and finished strong, going 17-16 overall.
A 6’3 forward known for his perimeter shooting, Book showed on Thursday he will be a big part of the Irish success as he scored a game-high 23 points en route to an opening-round win over namesake Lafayette, of Wildwood, at the Arvest Classic held at Parkview High School in Springfield.
“I’d describe my game as pretty well rounded as in I’m a pretty good shooter but can also take you off the dribble,” Book said. “I’m not the biggest guy but with someone as tall as me, I can take you to the post.”
Book says he stayed off the AAU circuit this past offseason, instead focusing on developing his body and making himself a better all-around player.
“I had a really good summer as in I worked on my body type and made myself a lot better basketball player,” he said. “I really just focused on my skills and athleticism.”
He says his role with Lafayette has grown this season as he has assumed a leadership role.
“My role w Lafayette this year is being a vocal leader,” he says. “I’ve tried to be the hardest worker but this year I’ve gotta work on being more vocal.
“I think our team this year is a lot more united as in we’re all in it for the same reason,” Book said. “This is our second year with our new coaches and we’ve made a lot more chemistry with these guys and this year we’ll get it back on track.”
Book says the biggest influence on his basketball career to date has been his dad.
“He always showed me how to work hard and always pushed me to be a good player,” Book said.
A fan of former NBA standout point guard Steve Nash, book says he appreciated the way the former MVP played and his work ethic.
“I used to love to watch Steve Nash play basketball because he wasn’t the biggest or most athletic guy but by the way he worked hard, he was one of the best,” Book said.