1 on 1: Jackson Ruai
Jackson Ruai (Amphi) is one of the most elite defenders in Arizona. He has the length and quickness to guard virtually anyone who steps on the court. Ruai is going to be a senior and made my list for Top 5 Players to Watch in the 2018-2019 Season (Class of 2019).
- What is your greatest strength on the court?
My biggest strength is defense. I feel and have the self confidence that I can guard any man on the court.
- What is your biggest weakness?
I don’t say it’s a weakness, but I am improving on my game offensively, working on being a consistent shooter , and being a better guard.
- Why basketball? What motivates you?
Basketball is a game that brings me joy, it’s pure passion for me and I love it all through the blood, sweat and tears.
- What role does academics play in your life?
Academics play a big part in my life. Coming here from Egypt, my parents brought me and my siblings for an education, opportunity, and a better life. Which will open doors for us.
- How’s recruiting going?
Recruiting has been great! I’ve been blessed to receive offers from amazing universities and coaches. My family and I are looking forward to making my college decision in the next 1-2 months.
- Any offers?
Offers: Nevada, GCU, Utah Valley, UC Davis, NAU, Portland St
- What do you ultimately want out of basketball?
I want it to get me A free education and take me to the next level, which I’ve been blessed with.
- What career field would you want to get into if you weren’t playing basketball?
Real Sate Or Business. Those two have always been my dream since I was young.
- Is there anything you want readers/recruiters to know about you?
I have 6 siblings. 3 brothers and 3 sisters. I’m the second youngest. My first sport was soccer, I was a goalie because of my long arms. I started playing basketball in the 4th grade and was born in Alexandria, Egypt. My family moved here to Tucson, Arizona in 2004. I was 3 years old at the time. I’m from South Sudan, where both of my parents were born and later left due to war and danger.
- What are your expectations for the season?
I expect for us to turn some heads and shock many people this season. I think our team could make a big run in the 4A Division. We are a very talented team that has a lot of potential. We’ve been doubted many times and faced a lot of adversity the past 2 seasons. We are a hard working team and we will compete against anybody as we showed last season.