Prospect Spotlight: Matt Cromer (2020)
South Laurel is the heavy favorite to win the 13th region in all the preseason publications and Junior Matt Cromer’s development is a big reason why so many like the Cardinals to get to Rupp Arena. Matt came a long way last season and ended up hitting the shot to send the region championship game to overtime before ultimately falling to Corbin. Heading into his Junior year, Cromer has been working hard to develop his game, “I’ve just been trying to stay in the weight room to get stronger and stay in shape for the season. I’ve also been getting a lot of shots up.”
After a good AAU season, Matt has been hearing from schools at all levels and took an unofficial visit to Western Carolina. Lipscomb, VMI and Pikeville have all been in touch with Cromer consistently since the summer ended too. Matt’s individual goal for the season is, “to show college coaches I can play at the next level and proving myself to others.” Along with being the preseason favorite, Cromer says his ultimate goal is to make it Rupp Arena. “Nothing less than a run at the state championship” was his answer when I asked what his team goals were for the year. Matt also just cracked the top 10 in the state 2020 rankings after starting in the mid 30s over a year ago. He told me, “I’m blessed to be ranked that high but rankings don’t matter when you’re on the court so I don’t really think about it like that.” Regardless of rankings and individual goals, Matt Cromer is on a mission to help lead his team to Rupp Arena and make a run at a state title in March.