Austin Abrams uses June to boost confidence
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For dozens of prospects, the DMV Live stage was used to help boost their recruitment after a shortened high school season that was confusing to say the least due to COVID-19. For 2023 Mount St. Joseph guard Austin Abrams Austin Abrams 6'3" | SG Mount St. Joseph | 2023 State MD , this stage was used to build his confidence and get a better idea of what role he would fill for this year’s Gaels squad. The moment of clarity for Abrams came in a matchup against Paul IV where Mount St. Joe was without four of their starters. Abrams stepped up in huge ways by leading his team with 19 points and a big win considering their obstacles.
“We were short four starters and I just knew that I had to step up and lead our younger guys,” Abrams said as he reflected on the win. “I knew Bryson [Tucker] and Ace [Valentine] wasn’t going to be there, so I knew I had to step up and hit shots, and I did.”
Abrams is no stranger to hard work. He’s playing this spring and summer with Mid-Atlantic Select 17U and getting valuable experience playing up and age group to help improve his game.
“I think my confidence is what has improved the most this spring and summer. I just wasn’t as confident throughout my sophomore season. My shot got a little bit better. I need it to be more consistent but it’s getting better. My handle got a little bit better too when I’m handling the ball under pressure.”
It seems like every year Mount St. Joe will lose valuable contributors off their roster and take a step back, but time and time again they stay within the top of the standings in the MIAA/BCL. It’ll likely remain the same this upcoming season.
“I think we all just need to keep coming together,” Abrams said on what will be key this offseason for his team. “I think if everyone plays together like we have been, then we’ll be able to compete with anyone. I know Spalding and St. Frances will have a good squad this year, so if everyone comes together I think we can compete with anyone.”
The Gaels certainly have a rotation that shouldn’t be overlooked. 2024 Bryson Tucker Bryson Tucker 6'7" | CG IMG Academy | 2024 #15 Nation FL is becoming a national name within his class. 2022 forward Aidan Mess Aidan Mess 6'7" | C Mount St. Joseph | 2022 State MD is emerging as a legitimate low major Division I prospect. Other such as Abrams, Valentine, Sean Clark Sean Clark 6'1" | CG Mount St. Joseph | 2023 State MD and others will be key in putting all of the pieces to the puzzle together. You never know as to who teams will add throughout the summer, so the roster may not be finalized, but outings like the one that Abrams had against Paul IV could stand out as being key for him playing a crucial role and performing at a high level this season for head coach Pat Clatchey and his staff.