Recruiting Update: Griffin Barker (2019 Eastside Catholic HS/Friends of Hoop)
Photo Credit: Joshua Bessex, Tacoma News-Tribune
Griffin Barker is chomping at the bit. The hard-working 6-foot-7, 245-pound forward is excited about his senior season at Eastside Catholic and feels the team has what it takes to capture the state title. Barker is coming off a solid AAU campaign with Friends of Hoop that he unfortunately missed the latter half due to illness, but it was still a successful campaign nonetheless where he caught the attention of many a college coach.
“(Before getting sick) My jumpshot was falling and we were getting into a really good rhythm with the team,” Barker said. “But I definitely improved my mid-range jump shot and my athleticism.”
Coaches certainly noticed Barker’s abilities as a tough big man who can stretch defenses with his shooting. Barker noted that he’s hearing from a whole host of college programs mainly at the D-II, D-III, and NAIA levels including Puget Sound, George Fox, Redlands, Vanguard, Pacific, Cal State San Marcos, and St. Martin’s. He’s also touched base the coaching staff a little at San Francisco, but at this point he’s totally wide open.
“There’s a lot to look at as I don’t want to make the wrong choice, but it’s really interesting,” Barker said. “I want to look at all these campuses and see what they offer. I think down in October I’ll go down to California and get a look at Redlands and Vanguard, but I’ll also be looking at the Oregon and Washington schools too.”
Barker broke down what he’s looking for in a college and basketball program. “I’m definitely looking for a place for me to grow and develop as a player,” Barker said. “Also, location is pretty big for me too. And university degree wise, I want to get into marketing.”
In no rush, Barker will evaluate all of his options after what he believes will be a highly succesful senior season at Eastside Catholic. “I think I’ll commit after we go to state hopefully,” Barker said. “I think we should win it this year as we have a four of our five starters coming back and we only lost two seniors.”
Barker currently ranks as the #29 player in the PrepHoops Washington Class of 2019 rankings.