Prospect Spotlight: Malcolm Bray
Playing division 3 basketball is something that is not a popular decision by most athletes with everyone having high hopes of playing division 1 basketball. Schools such as Duke, North Carolina, USC, UCLA, and more are dream schools to many different athletes across the country. Despite the big dreams of playing at that level, what happens if those schools aren’t recruiting you but division 3 schools are? This is something that St. Bernard 2018 graduate Malcolm Bray had to face before making his decision to attend division 3 school Knox College in Illinois. Bray played AAU with California Supreme as he was very effective combo guard. We were able to catch up with Bray for an interview.
Question: How long have you been playing basketball?
Bray: I’ve been playing basketball since I was four years old, I was originally a football player but it wasn’t for me.
Question: What basketball player did you look up to growing up and why?
Bray: Growing up I always admired my father Omar Bray and his game. He was always the hardest working player on the court. While having finesse and a smooth feel for the game.
Question: What is your goal with basketball for the upcoming year?
Bray: This upcoming year my goal is to make 1st team all-freshman in the midwest conference. To also take Knox College to the conference tournament.
Question: How has AAU helped your overall growth as a player?
Bray: Playing with California Supreme, it was never east. I wasn’t always the most talented, or athletic but it taught me that being the hardest worker and preserving will always take you farther than just talent. AAU taught me how to be coachable and being able to adjust to certain situations during the game. My game has grown immensely because of adaption. Every game I tried to put my foot print on it. If that means guarding the best player, playing the power forward, running the point.
Question: Do you feel that AAU is good for basketball and why or why not?
Bray: AAU is great for basketball I’ve made so many memories, and friends because of AAU. those friends became brothers and soon to be extended family. Playing the top competition around the nation, seeing the guys you played with and against in the Jordan Brand game, and the McDonalds all-American game. My experience has always been great: winning big tournaments, hotel breakfast with the waffle maker and all memories from every out of city tournament.
Question: How do you feel about division 3 basketball?
Bray: As division 3 may be looked down upon many people because it’s the lowest division but I will treat it like it’s a regular game. All those players have earned scholarships just as I did. So I’m going to go out there and outwork all of them.
Question: What’s your advice to upcoming high school players about division 3 basketball?
Bray: To all my high school players out there, D1, D2, D3 it doesn’t matter. Chase your dream, and get in your bag. No matter what division you are in, it’s all about getting your degree. Knox College is one of the most prestigious schools in the nation, academic wise. Most D3’s have great academics, and have great networks after your graduate.
Prep Hoops Staff