Prospect Spotlight: Jordan Belka (2018)
***Dunk photo of Jordan was given to NHR from Jordan Belka
Jordan Belka was one of the top stories of the summer. He played his way into the upper ranks of Minnesota 2018 talent. Now he is a senior with five regular season games left to play.
“Things right now are going fairly well,” Jordan told NHR. “We started the season a little slow but that was to be expected as we graduated six last year. Guys have started to settle in and our level of play has drastically improved.
“We have had to deal with injuries and sickness throughout the year which has forced guys to perform different roles but all have adjusted and we have been playing at a high level. I feel like I have had a good year on both ends of the court but have to continue to improve and play at a high level as we really want to end our season on a high note.”
At 23.3 points, nine rebounds, 2.6 assists, 2.4 steals, and 2.4 blocks a game Belka has performed to the large expectations placed on him. Belka is shooting 47.4 percent from the floor, 88 percent at the foul line, and 37.3 percent at the arc taking about 5-6 threes a contest.
Impressive numbers considering every team gameplans to slow Jordan each game.
“Overall I have become a much better player on both ends of the court,” Belka said. “Last year I was a role player on a very good team. This year I have been asked to be a leader and have been asked to do more on both ends of the court.
“My defensive play has really improved and offensively I have had to carry a bigger load. I have become a more consistent scorer. I am better in the post and have the ability to stretch the defense with my shooting ability. All of my hard work over the years is really beginning to show and pay off.”
Belka has a chance to reach his team goals. Rogers is tied for the Mississippi 8 Conference lead with Princeton and they have a huge game with the Tigers at Princeton next Tuesday.
The Royals are also one of four teams that are fighting for the 8AAAA section title. Maple Grove (15-6), St. Cloud Tech (15-8), STMA (12-9), and Rogers are all battling and Elk River, Buffalo, Brainerd, and Moorhead – who are all around .500 – are also there too. Anyone could get the ticket to state.
“We are currently in first place in our conference and are hoping to win it for the third straight year,” Jordan said. “It won’t be easy as many teams are fighting for that championship but I believe we have a team that can do it.
“Our section is wide open and with a high level play, we feel we can compete for section championship and play in state tournament.”
Belka signed with Northern State in the fall and is looking forward to his future in their program.
“I love everything about Northern State. I fell I love with it the first time I visited. Their coaching staff is first class and really help to develop a family feel. The players are great and you can tell that they really enjoy playing for each other.”