FISHERS, Ind. -- It was just over two years ago that five-star big man Nazreon Reid dealt with the type of tragedy that is all too common for today's youth when he and the basketball community lost Armoni Sexton -- an up and coming basketball prospect from Paterson (N.J.) -- to gun violence.
One of the most talented players in the class of 2018, Reid went for 16 points and 10 rebounds during his Sports U team's Friday night win over Team Thad. Recently, the loss of his friend has been weighing heavily on Reid and he's using it to motivate himself and be the best that he can be.
"I just realized that I need to play better and to give my all out there," said Reid. "I realized that I wasn't always playing all out and that I can play harder each time.
"Armoni should be out here playing with us and getting all of this (attention). I can't take it for granted."
In the past, there have been questions about Reid's motor and his willingness to mix it up inside where he can take advantage of his size and strength. Watching him play on Friday night, it would have been tough for anybody to question his motor or willingness to mix it up.
Reid was dominant physically while showing the type of touch and skill that has earned him offers from the likes of Syracuse, St. John's, Louisville, Maryland, Seton Hall, Rutgers, California and many others.
North Carolina hasn't offered, but Roy Williams was on hand to watch and so was Kentucky's John Calipari. With the Wildcats, Reid isn't exactly sure of the status of a scholarship offer.
"When I talk to them they say how they want me," said Reid. "But, they haven't actually said we are offering you a scholarship."
In no hurry to make a decision, Reid said that he has no plans to cut his list down and that it will be until after the summer before he does so. He is just focusing on playing hard and honoring the memory of his friend.
"I think when (coaches) see me they see a guy that is big and strong and can rebound," said Reid. "I just want to keep playing hard and see what happens."
