Prospect Spotlight: Willie Rivera Jr. (2022)
Willie Rivera Jr. has been aggressive so far at the Capitol Hoops Summer League. The incoming freshman has been able to contribute on both ends of the floor for Greenbelt (Eleanor Roosevelt), who currently sit tied for first with a 3-0 record so far at DeMatha. Rivera recently spoke with Prep Hoops about his overall game and much more.
PH: Despite having such limited practice time, it seems that you have pretty good team chemistry with the guys already. Why is that?
WR: “There’s a recreation center called Springhill Lake in Greenbelt, Maryland where a lot of the local kids go. I’ve been surrounded by Isaiah, Jaamir, and Cam. Just working out with them. And they’ve always been pushing for me to come to Roose. Even though I was recruited by WCAC schools. At the end of the decision I just though Eleanor Roosevelt was a good fit.”
PH: For those that haven’t seen you play, how would you describe your overall game?
WR: “I can shoot the ball really well. I can attack the basket really well. I play good defense. Sometimes. If it’s a big court like this it’s kinda hard because I get tired really easily.”
PH: Obviously it’s still very early, but what type of role do you think you will have?
WR: “I think I’m going to be coming off the bench for Lumi (Olumide Lewis), running the one. That’s what they wan’t me to play, and that’s what I want to play.”
PH: What do you think might be an underrated part of your game?
WR: “A lot of people think I can’t shoot, and I’ve been improving that. A lot of people think I can’t shoot.”
PH: What are you working on?
WR: “My defense and my ball-handling. Because playing on the varsity level my ball handling and defense have to be really good. And my conditioning.”
PH: What do you hope to accomplish during the summer league?
WR: “Just learning how to find my guys. Maybe winning the summer league even though we have a lot of good comp.”
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