Brandon Knight McDonald’s All-American Diary 3

Brandon KnBrandon Knightight, one of the top prep guards in the country, hasn’t decided what college he’ll be attending this coming Fall. But he does know where he’ll be on the last day of March: in Columbus, playing alongside two dozen of his best peers in the McDonald’s All-American game.

For now, though, BKnight is hard at work keeping a diary for us. Here’s this week’s entry.–Tzvi Twersky

The McDonald’s All-American Game is just right around the corner. I will be leaving next weekend and it’s exciting to know the Game is so near. I’m excited to know I’ll be playing in one of the most prestigious high school games in history. Playing in the McDonald’s All-American Game is the dream of all young basketball players because so many great players have participated in it and showed the world their talent while doing so.

I’ve been preparing for the McDonald’s All-American Game by doing the things I always do and that’s working hard each opportunity I have, both in the gym and in any type of training in the weight room. By continuing to do the things I’ve been doing as a player and student of the game, I feel I will be ready. I think it will be a great experience to travel around with the great group of guys who have been selected to play in the McDonald’s All-American Game. I personally know most of the guys and know I will have a great time traveling and doing various events with them. Not only will I enjoy my time off the court with the guys, but I will enjoy the great battles and competition we are going to have on the court. Playing great basketball against other great players always pushes me and forces me to elevate my game.

One thing that sets the McDonald’s All-American Games apart from all the other all-star games is that all the best players are brought together in one event regardless of shoe affiliation. Furthermore, the Ronald McDonald House Charities connection alone makes the McDonald’s All-American Game experience unique. The charity aspect makes it more than just about basketball, but also about helping others.

But as the McDonald’s All-American Games near, so does the end of my senior year. My plans for the rest of the year are to finish strong academically, continue to work hard on the court, have fun with friends, and cherish the time I have left at Pine Crest School. There is no particular part of my game I plan on working on specifically before making the jump to college ball. I plan to work on every aspect of the game so I can improve overall. There’s always something each of us can work on to get better and I plan to focus on a variety of things such as finding easier ways to finish, being two steps ahead of other players, and becoming more efficient.

Although I’m excited about the upcoming events, I can’t help but feel a pang of sadness. Why? Because of the amount of schoolwork that I will miss and have to make up when I return (sigh)! That being said, I have a lot of homework to do…see ya at the McDonald’s All-American Game!!!