Ben Shtolzberg breaking out in 2022 class, talks upcoming visits
2022 guard Ben Shtolzberg took advantage of the time inside during the COVID-19 pandemic and really worked on developing his game. The 6-foot-4 guard out of Castaic, California was a member of Southern California Academy this past season and really made a name for himself out there on the West Coast.
Since, he has turned himself not only into a regional priority but, has also drawn the attention of many programs outside of the West Coast including out East in New Jersey, where Rutgers and Steve Pikiell will host Shtolzberg for an upcoming official visit which will take place on June 5th.
In addition, he will also head out to Creighton for an official visit in two weeks which will also be a new environment for him. Northwestern will also earn themselves an official visit from the talented shooting guard who also holds a 4.0 GPA and that has been reflected on the many high academic schools that have been in pursuit.
Shtolzberg is a very illusive scorer who can stretch the ball and score on all three levels. He averaged 18.5 points per game on 40% shooting and also showed his capability on the defensive end and has asserted himself as one of the more lofty and underrated two-ways on the West Coast and shortly, will be on the national scale.
Shtolzberg took the time to discuss his upcoming visits with Stockrisers.com and also added which new programs have inquired in him, one of which is a local Pac-12 program.
Which schools are heavily involved?
“Creighton, Rutgers, Virginia Tech, Xavier, Northwestern, UCSB, Santa Clara, and Yale.”
Any new programs?
“Penn State, Illinois, and USC have started to get more involved.”
What exactly are you looking for when these programs make their pitch?
“The critical factors my coaches and I consider when evaluating an opportunity are: very strong player development, game style, great winning culture, a great opportunity will allow me to contribute right away, and trust (I am not looking for a 2-4 year relationship, I am looking for 20 plus year relationship).”
Now, talk Rutgers. Your relationship with the staff, your upcoming visit, etc.
“My relationship with Rutgers has accelerated very fast. After the offer, I developed a great relationship with Coach Pike and Hobbs about how good of a fit the school is and what my role could potentially be. What stands out with Rutgers is the opportunity for a skilled lead guard who can create for himself and his teammates on a great program. Also, Coach Pike has really elevated the program since he has been there which speaks volumes about the culture and identity of the team. This also shows how good their player development is and how well the coaching staff has done. We have created a great relationship and I can’t wait to see where it goes.”
You will also visit Creighton, where do things stand with them and your overall thoughts?
“Creighton is another school that gained momentum relatively fast with the move of Coach Ryan Miller, with who I have created a great relationship with. The style of play, player development, and winning basketball culture really stand out about Creighton. Over the years they have had a lot of success with crafty, high IQ lead guards like Marcus Zeg. Their style of play gives their players a lot of space to create and make plays for each other which is a system I see myself thriving in. Also, Creighton has really evolved into a powerhouse program that will compete for championships in the years to come. Lastly, Coach McDermott has created a great player development system that gives their players the resources and opportunity to get better and achieve their goals.”
How about Northwestern?
“Northwestern has been recruiting me for a very long time so I’ve had the opportunity to really understand their program and build a great relationship with the coaching staff. Again Northwestern has the fast-paced, free-flowing offensive system that is built off their lead guards creating for others. That gives me the opportunity to not only develop my game but have the opportunity to contribute immediately. I and the staff have to stay in consistent contact and have built a great relationship. coach Collins and I both have this big chip on our shoulders to prove ourselves.”
Any other visits you’re working on?
“USC, UCSB, and Santa Clara unofficially and V-Tech and Xavier officially.”
Commitment timetable?
“Would like to decide before my senior basketball season starts, but whenever I find the right place for me that’s when I’ll decide.”