Christian Bliss breaking out in the 2024 class, talks recruitment
For Christian Bliss, playing basketball at a high level was something he’s been destined to do since he was a young kid growing up. Doing cone drills and shooting in elementary school and ultimately being a standout as a kid in Queens, NY, those who know of Bliss understand why he’s in the position he is.
This is a kid Stockrisers.com has been tracking for multiple years. He was put on high-major radars during his 8th-grade/9th-grade year when St. John’s sent an assistant to see him play.
Now? his recruitment is taking off.
Bliss is a 6-foot-4 guard currently playing at The George School in Pennsylvania under former Penn State product Ben Luber. As for Luber, he’s raved about his lead guard who has had a historical season for TGS. Bliss had a career-high of 39 points in January which is also a George School record.
In addition, Bliss set The Friends School league single-game scoring record with that game, a record dating back to 1999. It’s been great to see his evolvement as a scorer due to the fact that he’s also a top-notch playmaker.
He plays his AAU basketball on the EYBL circuit with the PSA Cardinals, where he’s going to be a vital piece for them. His success also dates back to his time as Archbishop Molloy’s starting point guard as a freshman, replacing Cole Anthony who had transferred to Oak Hill the previous year.
His breakout this season has led him to a high-major recruitment, one that continues to blossom by the week. Multiple high-major offers, multiple visits, etc. He discussed that and a whole lot more in an interview with Stockrisers.com.
Which schools are heavily involved?
“Xavier, Virginia, Villanova, Penn State.”
Any new schools?
“Notre Dame and Boston College.”
How was your Virginia visit and what are your overall thoughts on their program?
“I had a great visit, really enjoyed seeing what they’re all about. They are very professional and do things the right way. I like the coaching staff a lot. I have a great relationship with Coach Orlando and really like Coach Bennett.”
How about Xavier and Coach Miller? and has Kachi [Nzeh] been recruiting you heavily?
“I like Xavier a lot, they’re building something special over there. Kachi and I are super close and we talk about it all the time. It would be nice to play with him again. I definitely like the coaching staff a lot. Coach Miller’s passion for the game speaks for itself.”
How about Villanova, you’ve visited plenty in the last few years, thoughts on them?
“They have always been a school I liked watching growing up. Now that I go to school out here, it seems like a hometown school and I really like their family-like culture. I’m building a strong relationship with the coaches there and I have a ton of respect for the way the coaches carry themselves.”
How has your game evolved this season?
“I am doing a much better job leading my team on and off the court. Understanding when to pick my spots and when I need to get my guys going.”
How do you feel the year has gone as a whole?
“I think as a team we are happy with how it’s going. We have overcome adversity and stayed together through the tough times, also enjoyed the good times by winning our league championship. We still have one more goal ahead of us, that’s a state title.”
Any more visits?
“I plan to schedule some officials after my season ends.”
Commitment timeline?
“Not sure yet, but, I’d love to commit early.”