Four-star forward Akok updates where things stand
PROVIDENCE – Akok Akok, one of the most unique prospects in high school basketball, has begun to spread his wings this winter with the Putnam Science Academy program in Connecticut. The 6-foot-8 four-star junior forward finished top-five in 3-point percentage and shot blocks during his time on the adidas circuit last summer.
Capable of making shots to 20-feet, defending multiple positions and leading the fast break, Akok has not been short for college interest.
“The season is going well,” he said. “I am starting to learn and become the player that I am trying to be. I am just trying to be an all-around player, play defense, and make shots, which helps you win games.”
While offers are still accumulating, Akok told Rivals that Providence, UConn, NC State, Texas Tech and a handful of others have been keeping tabs.
MORE: Class of 2019 Rivals150 | The Anfernee Simons Journal | Evans Seven
IN HIS OWN WORDS
Providence: “They just picked up a nice group of guys. They play together and let their players play freely as long as they play defense and play hard. (Providence signees AJ Reeves and David Duke) are in my ear a lot about going there. They say that it is a great school, which I agree with, and I have been on campus a few times this year and next year. It is a great college with a good team.”
UConn: “My good friend, Jalen Adams, goes there; he is having a good year there. It is a nice group of guys. They have a lot of good wins and losses, but I think they are going to come together and turn it around.”
Texas Tech: “I like them a lot. My friend, Malik Ondigo, goes there; he says that it is a great school for his and my playing style. Some people compare him to me so if that schools fits him, it should be able to fit me.”
NC State: “They are good. They are starting to come together and win some games.”
WHAT'S NEXT?
Akok has been unable to get to any college campuses this winter, though he would like to see a local Big East program in the future.
“I hope this spring to get back to Providence again,” he said. “I like seeing their players play.”
The four-star forward will finish his junior year alongside a talented crew at Putnam Science Academy before beginning his senior travel season with the Mass Rivals program on the adidas circuit.
RIVALS' REACTION
A rangy and active forward that presents a major mismatch as a small-ball power forward, Akok remains one of the better upside frontcourt prospects in his graduating class thanks to his length, shooting abilities, defensive acumen and quality motor.
Suitors will continue to emerge in the coming months as the Rivals150 product should have no issues picking up offers from some of the best programs nationally. However, it does look as if Texas Tech, NC State, UConn and Providence, are out in front as he finishes his junior year.