Prospect Spotlight: Cade Bleeker (2019)
A breakout player in Iowa’s 2019 class this season has been Sioux Center’s 6-foot-5 small forward Cade Bleeker.
Big and versatile, Bleeker started his hoops career as a guard, developing his perimeter skill-set. A growth spurt saw him sprout to 6’5, and now he’s developing an ability to play in the paint as well.
“I really like to go inside and out, I can shoot the 3 pretty well, so I’m pretty versatile with getting up and down the floor and finishing. So, I think versatility is probably my best strength out there,” said Bleeker.
“I grew quite a bit my freshman year, so I feel more comfortable with the ball out on the perimeter, but since I’ve grown I’ve kind of gone into the post a little more. I feel like I should be able to play both (inside and out) once I get to college.”
Although the Warriors ended their season a bit earlier than they had hoped, Bleeker’s junior season at Sioux Center went well.
He finished with averages of 15.3 points (54/41/70 shooting percentages), 2.5 assists and 4.7 rebounds.
“This year, coach wanted me to be more of a scorer and get to the rim, whereas last year I was more of a role player. So, I really focused on getting to the basket and scoring more that way,” said Bleeker.
“This summer, I’m going to work on ball-handling and shooting off the dribble is something I really need to work on. Also, just rebounding, I think I could be a better rebounding guard, so those are two things I’m going to work on heading into my senior year.”
Bleeker has spent his past several offseasons playing with South Dakota Attack. He’ll play with them again this spring and summer for his important 17U campaign.
“It’s a really good organization, and I’m looking forward to play with them again this summer,” said Bleeker, who’s got some initial college interest already trickling in.
“Northwestern, Dordt, Sioux Falls and Dakota Wesleyan have all talked to me. I’m just looking to get myself out there more; just go visit a few colleges, talk to a few coaches, stuff like that.”