Wednesday, November 18 2009

JAMAR GEORGE of the International School of Port-of-Spain Warriors is being assessed by Bryan Griffith, founder of New York-based NIKE — 1 Basketball Program Inc for a basketball scholarship after being identified through a recent Newsday article.

Bryan was keen to get in touch with the 17-year-old, after hearing of his exploits and desire to take his career to the collegiate level and one day make it into the NBA.

Speaking to Newsday, Jamar revealed that he is a big fan of Hornets superstar Chris Paul and his impressive play-making abilities.

“He takes control of the game and likes to help out his teammates just like me,” he said.

He lauded local star and national player Steven “Lighter” Lewis who he plays against regularly.

“I’ve always like the sport. I used to play against my older brother (Jamil) and he always beat me so that was my motivation,” he said, “I like to play against “Lighter” because it brings out the best in me,” he said.

He said he is very keen to go abroad and match up against some of the best young players.

Jamar was part of the ISPS Warriors team which toured New Jersey earlier this year for the Hoop Group Classic Tournament.

He started all five games played and they won once.

He pointed out that he is not daunted by the skill level of the players abroad as they are not much superior from the guys he plays against.

“I play adults most of the time so it’s not too much of a difference,” he said.

He explained that participation at the Hoop Group tournament opened his eyes as to the level players his age are at and where he needs to be to succeed.

“It motivated me to work harder to be one of the best,” he said.

He said that youths in the USA take the sport much more seriously than their counterparts in Trinidad and more opportunities need to be available for young players.

Jamar trains at various facilities including the St Paul’s Street Basketball Court, Eastern Regional Indoor Complex and at the ISPS Gymnasium for over an hour each day.

He said the best aspect of his game is his ability and willingness to drive to the basket.

“I like to drive and I’m not afraid to take contact,” he boasted.

His father Cuthbert George is supporting him 100 percent and is very eager to see his son accomplish his goals.

With crime and other social ills corrupting the youths in Trinidad, Jamar has remained focussed on the basket and the things required to win.

“No one could lead me the wrong way,” Jamar declared.