Recruiting Report: Ryan Garland (2019)
Sturgis Guard Ryan Garland is experiencing a lot of change in his basketball life but what is always consistent when it comes to Garland, his shooting stroke.
Garland competed with some of the top guards in South Dakota on Sacred Hoops this 17u season consistently providing toughness and a touch in the backcourt. He also got a chance to play basketball in a different way than he is used to.
“I learned a new style of play playing with Sacred Hoops,” Ryan said.
“We pushed the ball whenever we could and got out in transition whenever possible. We also played defense with a lot of intensity. Something I hope to bring to Sturgis for the upcoming season.
“The top memories of the season with Sacred Hoops were going down to Kansas and seeing all of the good competition there. It was really fun to play Boo Williams and know what it’s like to play a team of division one players.
With Sacred Hoops, Ryan got a chance to not only play in a new way and play against top guys from around the country, he also gained valuable basketball experience that will have him ready for just about everything. Even if his senior year will be a new experience than he’s been used to.
“There are a lot of changes this year for Sturgis with a lot of seniors leaving and having a new coach,” Ryan explained.
“Last year our expectations were high and we were just short of our goal of making it to state after losing in double overtime. This year I have the same expectations with some returning varsity experience on the team but a lot of younger guys will have to step up too.”
The winter led to Garland picking up a scholarship offer plus he has some visits coming up.
“I’ve been offered by Dakota State and been in contact with Dakota Wesleyan and Black Hills State a little. I’m planning on taking a visit to DWU and DSU in the near future.”