Isaiah Stewart Poised For Stardom

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Isaiah Stewart, a rising sophomore at Rochester’s McQuaid Jesuit High School, is set to break out this upcoming season. The 6’ 8, 230 lb. power forward, who is running with the Albany City Rocks 16U EYBL squad this summer, was a standout in his first season at the varsity level.

Stewart is the epitome of the term “versatile.” Well-built and extremely athletic, he is a formidable force down low in the paint. He possesses a variety of different moves and finishes practically everything that touches his hands. Stewart rises high above the rim and has many poster-worthy dunks to show for it. He can knock down the mid-range jumper with ease. If given the space, he can step out and shoot the three. He’s an excellent defender, as well. Stewart is adept at blocking shots and has the timing down to a science. No shot is safe in his paint. In addition, his uncanny length and athleticism make him pesky in the passing lanes. He was the ultimate defensive anchor for his team this past season.

Stewart averaged a staggering 18.8 points, 12.2 rebounds and 3 blocks per game this past season- certainly an impressive statline. College coaches have already begun to take notice. Stewart has received offers to play Division 1 basketball from the University of Tennessee, Wake Forest University, St. Louis University and George Washington University. He’s also garnered serious interest from Syracuse, Georgetown, Ohio St., Arizona, Notre Dame, Stanford, Virginia and Florida, among many others. Stewart has also attended multiple top-of-the-line, invitation-only training showcases/combines/camps, including the Nike Elite 100 camp, one of the most prestigious of its kind. This offseason, he has been working endlessly on his game. Stewart has primarily focused on improving his face-up and mid-range game, but has also spent a great deal of time in the weight room.
I had the chance to ask Isaiah a few questions:,

Q: What do you believe are your best skills as a basketball player?
A: I think my best skills are my length and my size. Both allow me to defend multiple positions and be effective on that side of the ball. I think I have a strong post game, as well. And, finally, I think I run the floor and finish in transition well.
Q: Have you set any personal goals for yourself this upcoming season?
A: Very simply, I want to lead my team to victories and a sectional title.
Q: What are some things you like to do outside of basketball?
A: I enjoy hanging out with friends and just being a regular kid.
Q: What kind of student are you?
A: I always work hard, whether it be on or off the court. I always stay optimistic and determined. McQuaid is a very challenging academic school. I came to McQuaid by way of a Rochester city school that didn’t have a high graduation rate. I think I’ve performed well at McQuaid thus far.
Q: What impact do you feel you would bring to a college team?
A: Energy. I will always bring energy and positivity. In addition, just a kid that’s always willing to learn and get better.
Q: Every kid who plays basketball thinks they’re good. What do you think you are?
A: I think I still have a lot of stuff to work on. I always have the mindset that there is at least one thing I need to improve upon.

Danny Cohen-Staff writer