Jadyn Strawder is hoping the Plant City Raiders can once again make some noise in the upcoming district tournament and get back to regionals. He’s currently leading the team with 13.4 points and 1.5 steals per game, and is also averaging 7.2 rebounds per game. Strawder came up big last week in a tough district matchup against East Bay, leading the Raiders to a 68-62 win on the road with 24 points, seven boards and two assists.
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How’s the season going, in your perspective?
It’s going really well. We’re going day by day. Practice is important. Coach (Billy Teeden) is feeding us his knowledge of the game as best he can. We’ve got to come out stronger.
What about you, how do you feel about the way you’ve been playing lately?
There’s room for improvement. Coach has me well-placed. He knows what’s best for me. I’m just going off of that.
What’s something you’ve noticed you’ve gotten a lot better at since last year?
My vision and attacking the basket. Last year I was mostly shooting threes. Now I’m attacking the basket and passing the ball a lot more, looking out for my teammates a lot more.
You guys are playing well in the district. The tournament’s coming up pretty soon — what are your expectations?
To get everyone off the jump. No getting in rhythm late, after halftime. We’re gonna come out in the first quarter, ready to play.
How long have you been playing basketball?
A long time, I started in fifth grade. I’m a senior now.
What got you started?
Me being bigger than most everybody in school.
What made you stick to it?
I caught on to the game real easy. It wasn’t even hard at all… I could get it really fast. It came naturally to me so it was something I stayed with.
Who do you try to play like on the court?
Stephen Curry, the way he sees the court. He can shoot when needed but mostly it’s the passing, looking for others on the team.
Any college plans?
Not that I know of right now, but hopefully I’ll get something. I want to get a scholarship. I think it’s possible with the work I’m putting in right now.
What kind of fit are you looking for?
Comfortable with the team. As long as I’m comfortable with the team and the coach and what he’s teaching. I always want to be learning. I should be fine. I’m pretty sure the wins will come.
Do you know what you’d want to major in?
Business.
If you had to make an elevator pitch to a college coach right now, how would you sell yourself? Why should someone offer Jadyn Strawder?
Because I’m always ready to learn. I’m going to listen. I’m here to play. You can put me in the right place and I’m ready for that.
What sport have you never tried but would if you could?
Swimming.
What’s your proudest moment on the court?
Probably this year when I dove at a ball, saved it and my teammate scored. I got up and my coach was more excited than ever, he slapped my hand and we were turned up just off of a dive on the floor, way more than an actual score.