Michael Moore’s stock continues to rise
There haven’t been many prospects locally that have seen their stock rise faster than 2022 SPIRE/Team Thrill forward Michael Moore. The 6-foot-9 Nigeria native has a combination of length and athleticism that makes him a nightmare around the basket defensively both as a rebounder or shot blocker. He’s put together a very productive spring for Team Thrill, emerging as the true anchor and paint presence that’s desperately needed in today’s AAU scene.
“It’s been a good spring and this is a new team that I’ve been playing with, so it’s been a really good experience,” Moore told Prep Hoops. “Being around these guys and Coach Mookie helps me at practice every day and is constantly making me better for the team, so I appreciate that.”
This Thrill team has no shortage of talent. Playing alongside a handful of nationally ranked prospects has exposed Moore to the talent that he’ll see on a regular basis at the next level. It’s also helped him realize that he needs to find his niche and thrive in doing whatever the team needs him to do in order to rack up wins, which includes dominating the glass, protecting the rim and running the floor with consistency.
Last weekend in a game against Mass Rivals, it was tied with less than 15 seconds as 2021 Ahmad Harrison Ahmad Harrison 6'1" | PG National Christian | 2022 MD shot a mid-range jumper with five seconds left for the win. Moore skied to corral the miss in mid-air and slammed home a two-handed dunk to give Thrill the two-point advantage. His work didn’t stop there. Moore proceeded to sprint back defensively and get his fingertips on the attempted three-pointer that would’ve won the game for Mass Rivals. In a nut shell, this is the type of play Moore can supply college programs at the next level.
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“I’m all about blocking shots, rebounding and being the physical presence in the paint,” Moore said as he described his game.
Moore’s hard work has paid off as he now finds himself on the radar of a slew of high major programs.
“I feel like it’s long overdue actually. This is how I play and this is what I bring to the floor. Switching to a better team was an upgrade for me and being able to play in front of all those coaches is actually a good experience.”
VCU, Virginia Tech and Seton Hall are the three programs that have extended offers since last month. Pittsburgh is also showing heavy interest and will like to have Moore on campus for a visit in the near future.
“A lot of the coaches just tell me they like the way that I play. They like the way that I run the floor. There are some schools that haven’t offered, but said they’re going to watch me closely this summer.”
When would Moore like to have his next destination decided by?
“I’d really like to my decision ready by the end of summer once AAU ends.”