Grind Region Preview: Kansas Hoggs
We may be in the middle of high school basketball season but it’s not too early to look ahead to what’s coming up on the AAU circuit. Over the next few months we will be taking a look at the teams that will be participating in the PrepHoops Circuit Grind Region and here’s a look at Kansas Hoggs.
Kansas Hoggs will have teams in the 17U, 16U and 15U divisions of the Grind Region and will be at the #Grind Szn Kickoff, Midwest Grind Session, and Grind Region Finals.
Here’s a transcript of a conversation we had with coach Steven Bonner.
Why did you start your program? How long have you been around?
I started my Kansas Hoggs program about 10 plus years ago as I started with my oldest son (Kobe Bonner) now whom is a senior in high school. I actually started a team with him when he was in 5th grade and they (his team) just graduated from my club this past summer in 17u. I wanted to give back to the kids in the community with all my experience I gained playing college ball which paved a way for a lot in what I’m doing now and sharing my love of this game of basketball, while at the same time giving the boys opportunities to compete against some of the best competition around to gain exposure.
What is the goal of your program for 2019?
Help kids develop fundamentally and mature as young men on/off the basketball court to prepare them physically/mentally for high school ball and hopefully pursue on to college ball.
What is your program’s mission each year?
Our club’s mission is to prepare our athletes for high school and collegiate level success through mentor-ship and character development, on and off the court. In addition to honing the fundamentals of basketball, we strive to teach our players the significance of dedication, commitment, life and leadership skills, and academics. While all of these attributes are important, the Kansas Hoggs are also widely known for their discipline, teamwork, and collective responsibility.
Do you know of any players that will be back in your program this year? Who should we have our eye on?
17u/2020 Kansas Hoggs Elijas Watson – Guard
17u/2020 Kansas Hoggs Drew Bortz – Forward
17u/2020 Kansas Hoggs Carlos Esquibel – Guard
16u/2021 Kansas Hoggs Isaiah Esquibel – Guard
16u/2021 Kansas Hoggs Dylan Wolf – Guard/Forward
Keep an eye out for every kid in my club.
Why did you choose the Prep Hoops Circuit?
Just to gain the exposure and its a good opportunity for my club to play against the best competition around. I played in quite a few of Prep Hoops tournaments in the past and wasn’t disappointed.