Prospect Spotlight: Samaad Hector (2018)
2017-2018 4A GSHL First Team… 2017-2018 First Team All-Region… 2017-2018 Second Team All-State Tournament. This impressive résumé of awards serves as recognition for all of the heart that Samaad Hector has put into this game of basketball. One of the most energetic players in the state of Washington, Hector recently caught up with me by reflecting on his senior season at Skyview High School and by looking forward to his future.
The 6’5 senior post, well known for his rebounding and interior defense, became a dominant player with the refinement of his offensive skills last summer. In addition to his 10 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game (and many more altered shots), Hector averaged 13 points per game on 54% from the field in the 2017-2018 season. Perhaps most impressive, and encouraging for his development at the next level, was his 22 made threes on 40% three-point shooting this season.
Samaad Hector (right) out-jumps 6’9 Kaden Perry (left).From the success of Hector’s regular season, in which his team went 19-1, he gained confidence heading into the postseason. When I asked him what his favorite part about playing basketball was, he answered simply, “the big moments I get to take part in.” It was in these big moments that he was even more impressive. In Skyview’s first game in the Tacoma Dome, against Glacier Peak, Hector hit the game-winner with 4.3 seconds left. Two games later, against Kamiak, he erupted for a career game. Hector finished with 26 points, 17 rebounds, and a Skyview win. These two moments are Hector’s favorite from his high school basketball career.
But he is not stuck reminiscing on the past. Hector is looking forward to his future. He feels that he can provide a college program with consistent rebounding on both ends of the floor, with scoring inside the paint and on the perimeter, and with an infectious energy that his teammates will love. While he works for his opportunity to prove himself, he continues to work on his game. He is continuing to play basketball this Spring, primarily wearing a Salem Hoop Seniors uniform, although you will also occasionally see him suit up for the Vancouver Grizzlies and Team Bradley programs.
I will leave you with this: if you get a chance to see Samaad Hector play, bring a video camera, because he plays with the type of passion that you will want to show as an example to athletes everywhere.