Prospect Spotlight: Luke Dawalt (2020)
Luke Dawalt is a name that is a little off the radar in the 2020 class. Standing almost 6’5, Luke is a dual threat player that can play inside or out on the perimeter. Coming off a sophomore season at Grant County where he led his team by averaging 13.5 points and 9 rebounds per game, Dawalt is currently playing AAU for Kentucky Brigade. I recently caught up with Luke to discuss his sophomore year and where he looks to improve his game in preparation for his junior campaign.
PHKY: Describe your game for people who may never have seen you play. What are your strengths? What do you need to improve?
LD: I’m the kind of player who will work his butt off every play of the game to make my teammates better. I’m a player who will attack the basket and fight for every rebound. I can handle the ball well for my size and I can shoot (Luke shot 38% from 3 this season). One thing I want to improve on is my footwork and getting quicker.
PHKY: Reflect on your high school season. Were you happy with your individual performance? Were you happy with your team results?
LD: My high school season was a success for me personally. It was my second year starting varsity and I averaged almost a double double for the season. Our team was in a rebuilding year and we were young and made young mistakes.
PHKY: Who are you playing AAU with? What are your expectations for your AAU season both as an individual and as a team?
LD: My AAU team is called KY Brigade and we are all from Northern Kentucky. The other guys on my team go to Simon Kenton while I’m the only one who goes to Grant County. We are a solid group that moves the ball very well and can shoot lights out when we turn it on.
PHKY: What schools are recruiting you? Any offers? If you have offers, do you have a leader right now?
LD: Asbury has shown some interest already. I haven’t received any offers yet but i hope to have some soon.
PHKY: What can you take from your AAU season and apply to your next high school season?
LD: I want to bring my AAU teams speed and aggressiveness to my high school team. I want us to be a threat to score at all times.
PHKY: What are your goals for your next high school season?
LD: This year i want to break the 1000 point club along with the 1000 rebound club. I’m close in both.
Luke Dawalt reminds me of former Harrison County star and NAIA All American Trent Thompson with his ability to score inside and out while pulling down rebounds from all over the floor. If Luke can continue improving his lateral quickness and shooting percentages, he should be a college player in 3 years. With his strong build and high IQ, Dawalt should be one of the top players in the 8th region next season and lead Grant County as they challenge for the 32nd District title.