Recruiting Report: Amani Walker (2019)
Amani Walker is one of the most improved players in the local 2019 class. The unsigned 6-foot-8 big man out of Baltimore Poly, who was a key contributor in his team’s regional championship victory over St. Charles, understood what was expected of him coming into this season and was ready to deliver.
“When I was talking to Coach Sam (Brand) and the rest of the coaching staff, they were telling me I had to play a bigger role when Demetrius (Mims), Cleveland (Horton) and Seth (Jones) leave,” Walker explained. “The new guys don’t have as much experience, so bringing my experience from the three years and just working hard everyday. I think I can help the team by doing those things.”
Despite being the tallest player on the floor, Walker demonstrated the ability to move his feet and depend on the perimeter last night. This is not something new as he’s grown comfortable defending smaller players over the years.
“I feel like since 8th grade, playing AAU with Coach Jarvis, I’ve always been able to defend wings. Baltimore is a “guard-city” so being able to play wings has been able to improve my game,” said Walker. “Especially at the next level. Obviously, working with Poly, they help me polish up everything, but I feel like I’ve been improving, but I take pride in playing defense.”
There are a handful of scholarship level programs actively recruiting Walker at the moment.
“I’ve got offers from Georgian Court and Augusta. Chestnut Hill will offer me once my test scores come in. I have interest from American. Towson was recruiting me earlier in the year, but they’ve backed off a bit. It’s those schools really.”
Walker has a chance to boost his stock with if he can play well and help his team win it all next weekend. He plans to hold off on making any type of decision on his recruitment until after then.
“I’m not really worried about that right now. I’m just worried about getting this state championship,” Walker stated. “And then after that I’ll take care of my personal stuff. I wanna worry about the team, getting these wins, and going for the three peat.”
What will need to happen in order for Poly to complete their coveted three-peat?
“Definitely toughness and discipline. We’ve just gotta focus on those things and stay locked in to our goal.”
Amani Walker is currently ranked by Prep Hoops as a top-60 prospect in his class. To view the full ranking of Maryland and DC’s 2019 class, click here.