Tristan Thompson Q&A
Words. HShoop
Tristan Thompson (Photo. Kyle Henry)
Tristan Thompson is a 6-9 forward from St. Benedict’s HS (NJ). The rising junior is widely considered the top prospect in the class of 2010. Boasting an inside-outside game, the left-handed Thompson has been a problem for rival forwards since arriving from our northern neighbors Canada, roughly two years ago. We got a chance to kick it with Thompson shortly after he participated in the Adidas Nations camp and shoot the breeze about his summer and the upcoming Boost Mobile Elite 24 game.
High School Hoop: You are originally from Canada, what made you want to come to America?
Tristan Thompson: The basketball competition is way better here. I wanted to get ready for college and playing against better competition helps. I’d rather be playing here against good competition than against guys in Canada that are not division one athletes.
HSH: How has the adjustment of being in another country been for you?
TT: It has been good. New Jersey and New York are similar to Toronto, it’s not a big difference.
HSH: What part of your game is the strongest right now?
TT: My face up game and traffic rebounding.
HSH: What are your weaknesses?
TT: Areas I need to work on is ball handling, shooting. There’s always room for improvement. I work on all areas.
HSH: What has this summer been like for you?
TT: It’s been good. We won in Vegas. I like traveling and seeing new faces.
HSH: You are considered the top prospect in the 2010 class, is that a lot of pressure or do embrace it?
TT: I don’t worry about it. I try to stay humble and work hard. I’m not there yet.
HSH: You committed to Texas as a sophomore, why did you decide to pledge to them so early?
TT: I visited Texas and it felt like home. Everyone embraced me.
HSH: A lot of players that commit so early usually back out, are you solid in your commitment?
TT: Yes sir. 100-percent.
HSH: What other events are you going to be participating in this summer?
TT: The Elite 24 game at Rucker Park.
HSH: Are you excited to be a part of the Elite 24 game and to play at the legendary Rucker Park?
TT: Playing at Rucker Park is big. It’s a blessing to be picked and to play with all these great players.
