Intro: Walt Mattingly (2021)
Deerfield 2021 forward Walt Mattingly broke out in a major way at the Prep U Showcase in late October. The sophomore is a 6’6” transfer from out of state that displayed a lot of intriguing tools. Good size, long arms, and projectability to both add strength as well as continue to grow vertically. In the paint he displayed touch around the rim along with a strong right handed hook shot. Could face up and handle it too with several sweet takes from the high-post area. Handles very well for his size. Crashed the glass on both ends of the floor. A lot of potential here as a skilled face up four man!
He talked with PHI about the move to Illinois.
“I moved from the greater Cincinnati area. I was in Indiana. My dad got a job here so we moved up here. So far it has been good at Deerfield. The coach is really welcoming.”
What has he noticed as the difference in styles of basketball?
“The pace is a lot harder up here. Everybody isn’t slow up here. They are stronger and quicker.”
The sophomore discussed his game with us.
“I am more of a point forward. I try to get everyone involved. I try to get rebounds and go. I can pass, shoot, and drive.”
Where are the biggest areas he needs to improve?
“Right now I am working on my ball handling, shooting, lateral quickness, and strength.”
The forward spoke about his role on the team this upcoming season.
“I feel like I can be one of the main scorers and leaders. Coming into the season we don’t have many leaders because we don’t have a lot of experience coming back.”
Already hearing from a couple colleges early in the process.
“It picked up this summer playing with the Cincinnati Royals where we beat a bunch of circuit teams. Right now I am hearing a little from IUPUI and Belmont.”