Nick Stafford: Challenges Ahead

Nick Stafford, a 6-8, 190-pound forward from Worcester Academy in Massachusetts, showed some brilliant flashes during the NEPSAC tournament. Stafford is a very athletic and well-built forward who has hops.

Stafford's big challenge ahead will be working on his touch from beyond five feet. If he is able to improve this individual part of his game, it's likely he will have high division one interest.

According to Worcester Academy head coach, Mo Cassara, Stafford has had some interest from schools like Notre Dame, Virginia, Georgia Tech, Villanova, Massachusetts, Providence, Boston College, Connecticut, Clemson, Ohio State, Hartford, and Maryland. The texture of these types of schools could change depending upon how much Stafford improves his individual skills.

Stafford has improved his overall game over the past year. But he will need to prove to college coaches he can go out and drain a jumper when he has the opportunity. "He is working hard to becoming a complete player," Cassara said. "He has been working hard in practice."

Stafford is likely to receive plenty of offers early on if he continues to progress in his game. "He is a great athlete," Cassara said. "He is going to be one of our top players next season."