Luke Kennard of Franklin, Ohio, won the boys 3-point shooting contest at the McDonald’s All American Game Jam Fest (Photo: Associated Press)

In the days leading up to the McDonald’s All American Games in Chicago, USA TODAY High School Sports will be catching up with various players to talk about their experiences. In this entry, we talk to Franklin High (Franklin, Ohio) guard Luke Kennard, who won the McDonald’s All-American 3-point contest and has signed to play at Duke for the 2015-16 season. 

This whole week has been great. We took a trip to the Ronald McDonald House this past Sunday which was a neat experience. And being on the court with a lot of competitive guys has been fun. Practices have been intense. We’re just trying to get better as players, which is what it’s all about.

Everybody knows Ben Simmons. He’s an animal, a great player who can do everything. He’s on the East team with me, and it’s been cool playing with him. On the West you have Jalen Brunson who is a great guard and playmaker who can get his teammates the ball. It’s neat playing with these guys.

Before the contests we got to shoot around a lot, so I was feeling it during warmups. I got a good rhythm throughout the first couple rounds of the 3-point contest and finished it up at the end. That was pretty big. Winning the 3-point contest as a McDonald’s All-American is a pretty big deal. Everyone was watching back home, and my family and friends and I were excited. I enjoyed it a lot.

I’m excited about Duke. They have a great team this year, they made it to the Final Four and hopefully they keep going with it. They’ll probably lose one, maybe a few guys next year. I’m ready to take on the role and come in and make an impact. I can shoot the ball pretty well and knock down some shots. I want to be an offensive playmaker. That’s what I can do and that’s what the coaches expect of me, so I’ll be ready for it.

Coach K is a great guy. Not only is he a great coach, but he’s a great person all-around. Once he started recruiting me we got closer and closer the couple of times I visited there. I love being around him and he’s the best of the best. I’m just excited to have the opportunity to learn from him.

Duke is in the Final Four this year and I’m hoping we can get there next year. I’m excited to be there and hopefully help put up some banners. Before that, tomorrow night is going to be a great game and a good time. We’re here for the ride and it’s a great experience, so this will be fun. We’re excited to be here and to end the week out on a good note.