WILLIS BASKETBALL STAR SHAWNDRICK “SJ” YOUNG JR. HAS ALWAYS HAD TUNNEL VISION—HE’S WIRED THAT WAY.
The junior averaged nearly 20 points per game, earning District 13-6A Co-MVP honors while leading the Wildkats to school history this past season. But his motivation? It’s personal. Very personal.
“My dad holds a lot of the old scoring records here at Willis,” Young said with a laugh. “He was thought to be the best thing walking the halls at Willis... now it’s me. I want all the records, and that really pushes me.”
Young was the engine behind Willis advancing to the third round of the UIL Class 6A playoffs, something the school had never done before.
“The school really rallied around us,” he said. “We had a pep rally where everyone lined the halls as we left for our playoff game. Next year, we want to win district and go even farther. If everyone has the same mentality as me, we’re going to get there.”
The summer AAU circuit and offseason training will be critical for the 6-foot-5 hybrid, who has college hoops aspirations.
“I’m a forward at the high school level... but not in college,” he said. “I’ve got a good shot, I’m a really good passer and rebounder, but I’m locked in on two things this offseason—getting stronger and tightening my ball handling. I can get to my spots now, but I’m going to add strength so I can take the contact in the paint and still finish.”
And when he’s not in the gym? It’s still hoops.
“I love playing the (video) game, of course,” he said. “But me and my friends go to the park, and before you know it, we’ve got some really competitive five-on-five runs going. That’s Willis for you.”
When it comes to watching basketball, one player has Young’s attention.
“I like the Rockets’ Amen Thompson,” he said. “I try to pattern my game after his. He can do a little of everything, and he’s a tough rebounder. That’s what I pride myself on, too. If I’m playing someone way bigger than me, they’re going to have a fight on their hands. I’m a high-energy guy.”
Must be in the genes.
