The nation’s top-rated center, Obinna Ekezie Jr., has been impressive this season for the newest national powerhouse, Southeastern Prep.
The 7-footer is a consensus Top-five recruit and is one of the most dominant interior forces in the entire country, regardless of class. Ekezie Jr. is fresh off an impressive performance at the John Wall Holiday Classic, an event in which many of those recruiting him were in attendance.
Arkansas’ John Calipari and Duke’s Jon Scheyer were among those in attendance to watch Ekezie Jr., as his recruitment remains very busy and could be a competitive one that goes down to the wire.
Duke, Arkansas, Maryland, Kentucky, UNC, amongst the many still squarely in the mix, and Ekezie Jr. got with Stockrisers.com to discuss that busy recruitment season, season improvements, and more.
Who’s heavily in the mix?
“I have been hearing from everyone pretty similarly.”
Any new schools enter the mix?
”Michigan and Missouri.”
How’s your relationship with Jon Scheyer and the Duke staff?
“Great. I was in North Carolina a few weeks ago at The John Wall and got to meet with him at practice. I had a good meeting with him and the staff.”
How about Buzz Williams and the Maryland staff?
”I have a great relationship with them as well. I mostly speak with Coach [Aki] Collins, but the full staff were here to see me during the fall. We are in contact often.”
How about Mark Pope and the Kentucky staff?
”Great as well. I am in contact with Coach Pope and Coach Fueger often. I took an unofficial visit and had a great time.”
How about Hubert Davis and his staff?
”Great. I speak with Sean May a lot. Coach Hubert is a really good guy. They were here to watch me in the fall.”
Arkansas and Coach Cal?
”Coach Cal and Coach Chin were at The John Wall to watch me. I am in contact with them often as well. Great program.”
New interest from Michigan?
“Got in contact with Coach [Dusty] May recently, telling me how I would fit into their program. Also talking about what things I am working on getting better at.”
Missouri?
”Just starting to build a relationship with them. My dad is the one in contact.”
What types of improvements have you made this season?
”Just trying to watch film and understand the game better. Being able to process things quickly and understand the game.”
Season goals?
”Win Chipotle Nationals and just keep getting better.”
Any NBA players you try and mold your game after?
”I like Joel Embiid, Chet Holmgren, [Evan] Mobley, and Wemby.”
