Ralph Scott Making Impression At IMG
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Ralph Scott is making strides in his basketball journey after impressing for the IMG Academy varsity Gold team in the Sunshine Independent Athletic Association [SIAA].
Now in his junior year of high school, the 6ft 7in wing/power forward is enjoying his first season at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida – his second at the high school level, having played for the Lakeland Christian School in Lakeland, Florida, last year.
“It’s been a new experience [at the high school level] competing against guys who have been playing for a long time,” Scott told Bernews. “I’ve been doing pretty well.”
Scott’s love for basketball runs deep – he can hardly recall a time when he did not have a ball in his hands.
His passion was nurtured by his mother, Shanay Scott, a well-known figure in Bermuda’s women’s basketball scene, and his grandfather, Ralph Scott.
Both have been instrumental in guiding his development as a player.
“My mom’s been my biggest my influence,” said Scott, who honed his skills locally for the Hurricanes Basketball Club.
“She’s always supported me and made a lot of sacrifices to help push me forward.
“The work ethic she shows inspires me. She was probably the first person to put a basketball in my hands.
“My grandpa, too, has always trained me when I was in Bermuda.”
A former Warwick Academy student, Scott describes his playing style as reminiscent of Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant, who is his favourite player.
“I’m a tall athletic wing, who likes to shoot the ball and play out of the perimeter but can play in the posts as well,” he said.
“I can also play defence. A player comparison would be Kevin Durant [of the Phoenix Suns].”
Scott, who has represented Bermuda at the youth level at several competitions, added: “My ultimate goal is to reach the NBA, but I’d also like my basketball to pay for my college studies.
“I’m a hard worker and committed to being the best I can be.”
