Prospect Watch: Akeen Woods (2018)
Hopkins wing Akeen Woods had a strong 17U season with Powerhouse Hoops White and is hoping to take the gains there and help the Royals win a state title.
“This off-season I played for Powerhouse Hoops, that program really helped me get ready for my senior year because of the leader role I had to play through the summer,” Woods said. “I also trained with Khalid El-Amin this summer, a former NBA player.”
Woods played last year on the Royals JV that often dominates its games and then building off of that he worked on skills, court IQ, and frame.
“I have focused on lifting more so I could get physically stronger and working on my ball handling and my jump shot,” Akeen stated. “I have also tried to work on my communication skills on the court.”
The Royals of course have five scholarship level returning players in the line-up but they will need supporting players as well. Akeen has worked to be one of those guys.
“We have some talented guys returning this year and some guys looking to take on a new role to fill in for the seniors that left last year,” Woods said. “We would also like to build off our season last year and improve on our mistakes.
“This year I would like to make my teammates better when I get onto the court and have more of a leadership role. As a team we would like to improve our chemistry and communication on the court and make it to the state championship.”
After some impressive showings in St. Cloud and other places with Powerhouse Hoops Woods has had some initial contact with programs. NHR watched Woods 3-4 times this 17u year and was impressed with his shooting and defense.
“I have had some Division two and Division three schools contact me and hope to have some more during this season,” Woods said. “I haven’t taken any visits yet but hope to in the future.”