Sophomore of The Year

Blair Academy's Luol Deng and Coach Joe Mantegna

The Real Deal

When Luol Deng arrived At JFK International airport almost 2 years ago to attend high school at prestigious Blair Academy in Blairstown, he had no idea how successful he would be as a high school basketball player. Despite dominating amateur basketball at the tender age of 14 in club play in England, Luol had his doubts about playing in America. "I was little afraid when I first came to the states because I had heard so much about the talent here," said Luol.

After completing his sophomore year, there is no doubt that Luol is more than capable of competing at a high level in America. Since arriving at Blair Academy, Luol has led the team to an impressive record of 38 – 8. Before Luol 's arrival Blair had never won the NJ Maple Prep League Championship. Well this year Blair made history with Mr. Deng as they won their first regular season championship. Blair’s record in the conference since Deng’s arrival is 14-4. This year Deng averaged a double-double every game. PPG & Rebounds. (20.7 & 11). Although he dominates players in the Maple Conference regularly, Deng raises his game to another level when he plays against the top players in the country, as he completed a triple-double against the talented St. Thomas Moore team from Connecticut. NJ high school hoop fans, many of you may not have seen Luol play because of the conference Blair Academy plays in, but don’t sleep on his skills because he is the Real Deal; and that’s why we named him our Metro Hoops NJ Sophomore Player of The Year.

At 6-7 Luol has great footwork, which gives him the ability to play positions 2-5 with ease. Although he frequently plays the center position Luol does not have a problem playing away from the basket. He has decent range on his jump shot; Luol shot over 40% from the three-point strip. Hey and don’t try to double-team him because he’s great at finding his teammates out of double team. Blair coach Joe Mantegna says that Luol has the highest basketball "IQ" of any player that he has ever coached. "I’m amazed at Luol understanding of the game at such a young age" said Mantegna.

Although Luol dominates most high school players with ease he does not rest on yesterday accomplishments. "He’s a better kid than he is a basketball player," said Coach Mantegna. Despite his success he has remained a humble kid. When asked where does he see himself 2 years from now? He simply looks at you and says; "better". Luol currently lifts weights and drills at 6:00 am every morning with a few teammates before starting a stern academic day at Blair. That’s serious dedication!

This summer Luol will attend the prestigious NIKE All-American camp in Indianapolis Indiana as a sophomore. This will be his coming out party on a national level. Next year he certainly will be one of the top 20 Juniors in the country. However, in New Jersey he's still somewhat of a secret. Hey High School hoops fans, next year if you're near a Blair basketball game go check Luol out! He’s the real deal!