PAC-10 Interested in Zumwalt
Portland (OR) Lincoln High School enters the 2003 Oregon 4A State Championships this week after
winning their first league title in 39 years. The Cardinals couldn't have done
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it this season without their star shooting guard, 6-3, 190 pound Neal Zumwalt.
A four-year member of the Lincoln varsity squad, Zumwalt is a shooter with deep
three-point range who not only excels at the catch-and-shoot game, but can also
create his shot off the dribble. After averaging 13 points a game as a junior,
he has upped his scoring average to 19 points this year, pacing the Cardinals
in that department. And with his solid frame and broad shoulders, Zumwalt also
helps out on the backboards and defense, as well with his passing.
But Zumwalt knows his main role on the team is to be the top gun offensively.
"Basically put the ball in the basket," said Zumwalt. "That's what I'm here
for."
Although he didn't have a good shooting night in Lincoln's season finale last
Wednesday, a 75-64 win over Madison, Zumwalt still put together a solid overall
effort with 12 points and seven rebounds. But in the games this season when
his shot has been on, he's had some outstanding performances.
"He can score, he can really shoot the ball," said Lincoln head coach Troy
Berry. "Especially when he gets in a nice rhythm."
Earlier in the year, Zumwalt made the all-tournament team at the Iolani Prep
Classic in Hawaii. In Lincoln's 80-75, double-overtime win over Montepaschi
Siena of Italy, he lit up the court for 30 points. He has also had some strong
outings in big games back on the mainland. His 19 points led the way in a key
63-53 home win over Jefferson, and a 29 point performance in a 90-57 win over
Franklin helped clinch Lincoln's first Portland Interscholastic League title
since 1964.
With Lincoln a young team with several sophomores playing key roles, Zumwalt -
one of only two seniors on the team - knows that he needs to be the leader,
especially if the team hopes to capture a state championship.
"You've got to definitely lead by example, and lead vocally," he said.
Zumwalt is currently open in his recruiting. Eastern Washington has been in
constant contact, and Gonzaga has also been in touch with him. A few Pac-10
schools such as Oregon State and Washington have also shown some interest.
However, both Zumwalt and Berry know that a good performance in the state
tournament will go a long ways in generating more college interest.
"He's a Division I player," said Berry. "He's been working hard and has great
work ethic. He's going to be a nice addition to somebody's program."
Both Zumwalt and his coach agree that he needs to build strength, improve his
foot speed, and clean up his ball-handling to succeed at the next level.
Zumwalt is fully qualified, having taken care of what's required of him
academically with a 2.5 GPA and a 1100 on the SAT.
Lincoln plays its opening game in the Oregon state tournament on Wednesday,
March 12.
Jed Tai is a Senior Writer for Hoopville.com