Wendell Carter has played well at the Nike Basketball Academy, giving his stock a bump, at least in our eyes. An Al Horford type, he has a rare combination of size, explosiveness, and finesse making him one of the top prospects in the rising senior class. A thoughtful young man, we got to talk to Carter about his Team USA experience, possibly teaming up with Gary Trent in college, and a few other topics.
NBADraft.net: What’s been your impression of the Academy so far?
Wendell Carter: A lot of great competition out here. Kind of toward the end of the season. Fatigue is starting to wear on my body but I have no time to stop so just got to keep grinding until I get that break I want.
NBADraft.net: To somebody who hasn’t seen you play before, how would you describe your game to them?
Wendell Carter: Hard worker, do all the little things. Set great picks to get other players open. Great rebounder. Great defender. Great shot blocker and can score when needed.
NBADraft.net: What’s the main thing you want to add or work on as you finish high school?
Wendell Carter: Probably add a more consistent jump shot and more confidence in my game. That’s about it.
NBADraft.net: How’s recruiting coming?
Wendell Carter: Good, just cut my list down to eight so I think I’m moving at a steady pace. That’s about it.
NBADraft.net: Is there any truth about you and Gary Trent going to the same school?
Wendell Carter: Yeah, I would give it like 50-50. We’re trying to.
NBADraft.net: Who’s been the most difficult opponent you’ve faced?
Wendell Carter: Probably Harry Giles. He’s very versatile, can shoot the ball, can dribble, can finish at all levels so he’s pretty hard to defend against.
NBADraft.net: What’s been your biggest basketball moment so far?
Wendell Carter: Probably being here. All the great NBA players who came here share their knowledge. I just soak it all up and try to do it on the court.
NBADraft.net: What about your experience winning gold with Team USA in Zaragoza?
Wendell Carter: It was great. Going to Spain with a lot of my friends on and off the court. It was just a lot of fun.
NBADraft.net: What do you put more value into, winning an Olympic gold medal or an NBA Championship?
Wendell Carter: Probably an Olympic gold medal. That’s something that’ll never be forgotten. Yeah an NBA Championship is great, great rings, things like that but that gold medal, there’s something special about it.
NBADraft.net: What are some goals you have as you finish high school?
Wendell Carter: First to get another State Championship and just improve my game.
NBADraft.net: Where do you see yourself five years from now?
Wendell Carter: Hopefully in the NBA but if not having my degree and hopefully having a successful job.
