Recruiting Report: Benji Lundberg (2018)
NRHEG basketball has been winning for years and that doesn’t seem like it’s about to change. Senior Benji Lundberg has the team at 3-0.
“So far this season we have won all three games we’ve played and are gradually getting better,” Benji said. “We have a lot of long and athletic bodies that have potential.
“Once everyone gets the speed and strength of the varsity game, we will be a very good team at the end of the season. Individually, for myself, my game has improved a lot from a season ago. Right now I am averaging over 24 points, five assists, and six rebounds a game.”
NRHEG won 30 games a year ago but Oakley Baker has graduated. Lundberg was a key player a year ago but now is the guy leading the way.
“I have become a much better leader and more vocal towards my teammates, and try to push everyone every single day,” Bemji said. “Also, I have put endless hours in the gym and worked on my midrange jumper.
“Compared to when I was a sophomore on varsity, my jump shot was inconsistent, but now I am fully confident in that part of my game. My footwork and becoming more efficient on offense has improved a lot from a season ago.”
The Panthers have beaten St. Clair, Maple River, and Medford so far and are ready to push for even more.
“This season is a whole new look and group, as opposed from last year’s state team. We graduated five starting seniors, so a lot of guys are getting their first varsity experience. I came off the bench due to an injury suffered in the early parts of the season last year but played the second most minutes on the team.
“Brady Agrimson and I were the only two that played lots of varsity minutes from a year ago that are returning this year. However, I look at our team and expect big things because of our size and skill. I hope to get our team ranked in the Top Ten in Class AA by the end of the season.”
Benji was an all conference player a year ago and as a senior he has a chance to be honored in many ways.
“My personal goals for the season are to be on the All-Area, All-Conference, and All-State teams,” Benji said. “Also, I want to be the All-Area Player of the Year.
“Statistically, I think I have an opportunity to average over 25 points and 6 assists a game. For the team, my goal is to make it to state again. Also, I want us to be one of the best defensive teams in Class AA.”
Benji is just under six feet tall at the guard spot. He’s hearing from four college programs.
“I have been contacted by Gustavus, Wisconsin River-Falls, Jamestown, and Grand View University. I have taken visits to Gustavus and River Falls.”