McAdoo wins USA Basketball award
Words. Jason Jordan
After helping Team USA claim the gold medal in the FIBA Americas U16 Championship this past summer, Norfolk Christian High (Va.) forward James McAdoo was named the 2009 USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year.
McAdoo, 16, is the youngest player ever to win the award.
“When they told me that I won the award I was kinda shocked,” McAdoo said. “It’s a great honor. I got a nice plaque with the team’s picture on it and a really nice crystal ball. It’s real nice! This is probably the biggest award I’ve received so far.”
McAdoo, a junior who is committed to North Carolina and the 13th-rated player on the HSH Top 50, averaged 16.8 points, 8.6 rebounds and two blocks during the tournament last summer, as Team USA ran off a 5-0 record.
HighSchoolHoop: So that’s pretty big news. What did your future coaches think about that?
James McAdoo: Well, I talked to Coach (Steve) Robinson (UNC assistant) and he was pretty excited about it. They’re always excited about something like that. It represents North Carolina well, ya know.
HSH: What do you think about the Tar Heels so far?
JM: Well, they’re doing pretty good. They’re up and down because they’ve got the young guys out there. I think they’ll be alright, though.
HSH: How’s your season going so far?
JM: It’s going really well. We’re still trying to work out a few kinks, but it’s going well.
HSH: What’s your record?
JM: We’re 2-1 right now.
HSH: What are you averaging so far?
JM: I’m averaging 22 points and nine rebounds.
HSH: What are you focused on getting better at individually?
JM: My defense. When I go to college I’m probably going to end up having to guard big men as well as guards, so I’ve got to work on moving my feet and getting stronger on the defensive end.
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