Micah Cramer (2019) – An Interview
As the saying goes – it was a minor setback, for a major comeback. Unionville-Sebawaing’s Micah Cramer (2019) was put through the ringer a year ago when doctors diagnosed him with torn labrums in his hip flexors, hamstring strains and…
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Continue ReadingAs the saying goes – it was a minor setback, for a major comeback.
Unionville-Sebawaing’s Micah Cramer (2019) was put through the ringer a year ago when doctors diagnosed him with torn labrums in his hip flexors, hamstring strains and nerve damage due to a misshaped pubic bone. After months of rigorous therapy and a lot of prayer, Cramer is feeling better than ever and enjoying a solid start to his final season with the Patriots.
The senior guard came through in the clutch last week when he hit the game-winning bucket to take down conference rival Reese. We recently had a chance to catch up with Cramer to chat about his goals for the season and his hopes of playing at the next level.
How did you prepare for the final season of your high school career?
MC: I’ve been preparing for this season for awhile now. It all started with therapy and making sure my legs get stronger and quicker. During the summer I lifted weights with the football team in the morning for an hour and then shot for three hours after. That time in the gym is what will separate me from others this year.
What are some of the goals your team has for this season?
MC: Some team goals that we have are to win league and districts, and then do everything in our power to keep advancing during March.
Individually, what are some of your goals for this season?
MC: My goals for this season aren’t defined by numbers. I just want to be the best leader I can be and make the biggest impact on the court that i can. And my goal for each game is to be as relentless and aggressive as I can be, because that is when I’m at my best.
What would you say is the biggest strength in your game?
MC: I would say my biggest strength is handling the ball and making good decisions, mainly in transition. What I need to improve on most is explosiveness and strength on offense and defense in order to play at the next level.
Who, or what, motivates you to work harder – both on and off the court?
MC: I try my best to do everything for the Lord. The Bible says to run every race as to win the prize, which means if there is a competition, then I want to win. I’d say my motivation is representing God, my family, and my school when I’m out on the court.
When chatting it up with a college-level coach, what would you say you can bring to their program?
MC: I say I can bring good decision making, leadership, and a hard work ethic to any program. Grit.
Who is the toughest player you’ve ever had to match up against?
MC: The toughest player I’ve ever had go guard is probably Malik Ellison. That guy played with so much confidence. You could tell he put the work in and that he trusted his abilities. High IQ, great handle, and could pull up from anywhere.
What’s one of your favorite gym’s to play in?
MC: My favorite gym is our home court. Great atmosphere, plenty of banners to look at in the rafters and It’s where I’ve put all my work in. I’ve spent a ton of time alone working in there, so when I step on that court in front of a crowd, it means so much more.
What is the most memorable game of your high school career thus far?
MC: The most memorable game of my career is definitely last year beating Flint Beecher. Everyone counted us out, but we knew what we were capable of and we came out with a W.
If you had to compare your game to one player in college or the NBA, who would it be?
MC: My teammates say I play like Mike Conley (Memphis Grizzlies). He’s got a smooth lefty shot and nice handles. He’s fun to watch.
What’s your favorite subject in school and why?
MC: My favorite subject in school is weightlifting. Our school has a great lifting program and it provides a huge advantage for student athletes to get stronger and faster. Our teacher was a state-champion football coach for our school and he puts us to work everyday. Our school has great success in a lot of sports and I believe that it is due to that great lifting program.
Do you have a pre-game ritual or any superstitions?
MC: I’ve never had a strict pregame ritual. But, one thing I always do is pray during the national anthem. Other than that I just listen to music and I like to kind of go into my own zone. This year I decided to add jump rope to my pregame routine as well. It’s a great warm-up and gets me ready for the game.
What song gets you pumped up before a game?
MC: My favorite song that gets me hype is one that just released. It’s called KING KONG by Kaleb Mitchell. It gets me going.