Nipissing Lakers men’s basketball head coach Chris Cheng believes that strong play by guards is the difference in a successful team and one that just competes in the OUA.
With that in mind, Cheng has added another solid recruit to the program, adding Justin Hill, a 20-year-old who comes from San Francisco, CA, but has dual citizenship.
Hill is a skilled point guard that will come to the Lakers after finishing his time with Foothill College, located in Los Altos, CA.
The 6-foot, future BPHE student said he’s looking forward to being part of an up-and-coming program and hopes to help the Lakers continue their progress.
“I am extremely honored and excited to have the opportunity to sign with the Nipissing Lakers and play in Canada. Knowing that I will be coming to a young program and playing for Coach Cheng made my decision a lot easier,” Hill explained. “Being part of a program that is growing and building a strong team culture is important to me.”
Hill has family throughout Canada, U.S. and even some in Jamaica and he said now was the time to make the transition from California to Ontario.
He said he’s coming to the Lakers with an open mind and is ready for any challenges ahead – whether it’s on the court or in the classroom.
“I am really coming into my first year without any expectations. I am ready for whatever comes my way and I’m motivated to be the best player and teammate that I can be through commitment, effort and intensity,” he said. “As a team, I want us to compete for a CIS Championship, and be the best we can be individually and collectively.”
Hill played for De La Salle at the high school level under legendary coach Frank Allocco, so Cheng knows he comes to the Lakers with a very good basketball background.
The Lakers head coach explained that knowing a recruit comes in prepared and knowledgeable is a huge positive when preparing for the upcoming season.
“Justin is another experienced skilled guard added to our roster. Justin comes from a winning culture which is very important. He has a lot of success with his high school program (De La Salle) winning games and championships,” Cheng said. “In this league and in our conference, you are only going to be good with solid guard play. I feel that Justin increases our guard play with his shooting, defence and creativity. I am excited that he and his family have chosen our program.”
The De La Salle high school grad was a member of the EBAL championship team, the North Coast Section Div. 1 championship team and NorCal semi-finalist team.
He also earned defensive player of the year and most improve player honours, as well.
Hill knows there will be an adjustment period, but he explained that no matter what league, division, or calibre of basketball he is playing, he prides himself on the same things.
Being able to defend the opposition’s top players, make a clutch shot and distribute the ball are all things Hill will be ask to do and he’s aware of that.
And there’s no question he’s up to the task.
“Although I know that there is always room for improvement, I pride myself on being a two-way player and see myself as a strong defender. I am always up for the challenge of guarding the other team’s best player,” he stated. “Offensively, as a point guard, I take it upon myself to make my teammates better whether it be through passing, the drive and kick, or stretching the floor with my shooting ability. I am a passionate player, and am eager to develop my game through hard work and dedication at Nipissing University.”
