Prospect Spotlight: Michael Aiken (2021)
Michael Aiken is often the smallest player on the court, but in most games makes the biggest impact. We’ve seen evidence of this throughout both his high school and grassroots career. Aiken won’t turn 16 until August, but already has…
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Continue ReadingMichael Aiken is often the smallest player on the court, but in most games makes the biggest impact. We’ve seen evidence of this throughout both his high school and grassroots career. Aiken won’t turn 16 until August, but already has an impressive resume to build on. Prep Hoops got to know him better during a recent interview where he discussed his overall game and goals among other topics.
PH: How does being the primary ball-handler during the high school season in a tough league prepare you for moments like this on the AAU circuit?
MA: “The league we play in at TMA makes me a better player. It makes me tougher. That toughness and grind mentality, I bring it over to AAU and it helps my teammates.”
PH: How would you describe your game for those who haven’t seen you play?
MA: “A dog. I’m scrappy on defense and I make the right plays.”
PH: What’s something that’s underrated about your game?
MA: “I wanna say my athleticism and the way I talk on the court. Definitely my jump shot too. Most of the game I’m getting to the hole, but some people think I can’t shoot.”
PH: Is your shooting ability something you’ve always had or something you’ve had to work on?
MA: “It’s something I’ve had, but I’ve also worked on it a lot. It doesn’t show sometimes in games because most of the time I’m getting to the basket, but I’m definitely going to show that ability.”
PH: What do you think you need to work on?
MA: “Everything. From offense to defense. Getting stronger, being consistent, talking, and playing scrappy on defense. Helping my teammates become better.”
PH: How are your grades right now?
MA: “Third quarter, I had a 3.1. My goal is to get to a 3.5 this quarter.”
PH: What are some goals you’ve set for yourself?
MA: “Becoming a better player, becoming a better person, and helping my teammates. And hopefully to get my first offer.”
PH: Who do you model your game after?
MA: “I don’t really know. Maybe Tyler Ulis a little bit. Scrappy.”
PH: What do you think you can bring to a college program down the road?
MA: “A great teammate. Toughness on the offensive and defensive side.”
Mike Aiken is currently ranked by Prep Hoops as a top-30 prospect in his class. To view the full ranking of Maryland and DC’s 2021 class, click here.