Prospect Intro: Trace Flanary (2021)
Following a successful freshman campaign at Bowling Green High School, 6’4 forward Trace Flanary plans to build towards a breakout sophomore season for the Purples. Despite only seeing varsity action in only 3 games last season, Trace was a big part of the freshman and JV teams at Bowling Green and should see an increased role with the graduation of Jarius Key. So far, Trace is having a strong showing in AAU playing with Team Vision 15u. Just last weekend, Flanary had 20 points 11 rebounds and 3 blocks in a win for the Vision. I recently caught up with Trace to discuss his AAU goals and what he expects moving forward at Bowling Green.
PHKY: Describe your game for people who may never have seen you play. What are your strengths? What do you need to improve?
TF: I think I have a high IQ for the game. I’m an average shooter and I can find my teammates when they are open.
PHKY: Reflect on your high school season. Were you happy with your individual performance? Were you happy with your team results?
TF: I played well. I could’ve given more effort. Overall, I’m proud of our team. We fought hard and lost in the finals of region.
PHKY: Who are you playing AAU with? What are your expectations for your AAU season both as an individual and as a team?
TF: I’m playing with team Kentucky Vision Elite. I’m expecting big things as a group and individually. Currently we have a winning record and I’ve been playing solid.
PHKY: What schools are recruiting you? Any offers? If you have offers, do you have a leader right now?
TF: Currently I have no offers/interest but that’s soon to change. I’ve currently started to wake up some scouting services. I’m working on my game everyday and getting my name out there.
PHKY: What can you take from your AAU season and apply to your next high school season?
TF: I’ve learned that working hard playing together and being vocal on the court wins games.
PHKY: What are your goals for your next high school season?
TF: My goals next year are to wake up college coaches, win as many games as possible and have fun.
Trace already has good size at 6’4 but if he could hit a growth spurt and reach 6’7 or bigger, he could definitely pop up on some coach’s radars. If Flanary is done growing, he’ll need to transition to the wing. To do that, Trace must become a more consistent shooter and improve his lateral movement. Probably Trace’s biggest asset right now is his motor. There were multiple times during my first time seeing Trace where he was skying above the rim to snatch a rebound then pushing the break. Regardless of if he grows or not, Trace’s motor and skill set should keep him in the discussion for top forwards in the 2021 class.