One-on-One: Ron Patterson

One of the top freshman in the entire state in Broad Ripple guard Ron Patterson (pictured, right). The big news this past week is that Patterson had received scholarship offers from both IU and Purdue. Coach Tom Crean offered him over the phone, while Ron received an offer from Purdue coach Matt Painter after attending one of their games at Mackey Arena. He is, no doubt, one of the top two freshmen in the state along with North Central guard D'Vauntes Smith Rivera, and a quality case could be made for either at number one.

As a player, Patterson is an athlete. He has nice form on his jump shot, so while he in not super-consistent with it right now, he can easily improve since he has that nice form and high release point. He is an athlete. He had one very nice dunk on the break and had another throw-down go in and out while being fouled on the drive near the end of the game. He has the tools to be an excellent defender. He has a great, low defensive stance and good lateral quickness. He also has an unbelievably long reach, having a 6'11" wingspan at only 6'3" tall. So if he does get beat, his length can help him recover with hands on the ball or trailing blocks. He needs to develop a more consistent motor and more tenacity. He played a bit passive at times, especially defensively and on the glass, but that could have been due to the fact that he battled foul trouble all night. With his length an athleticism, he could be a tremendous rebounder as a guard, easily averaging 8-10 boards a game. He finished with 19 points on the night, with one three. He ha several impressive plays, like beginning the game with two nice 15-foot pull-up jumpers, and a few slashing moves. All in all, it's easy to see why Patterson is such a highly coveted recruits, and has earned early offers. Coach Crean had to like what he saw on Friday night.

Now, the transcript of my interview with Ron Patterson:

P-Hoops - Ron, thanks for your time. I just have few quick questions. You had a nice game tonight. What were you trying to do against Arlington?

Ron Patterson - I was just trying to get a win however. Trying to get a road win at Arlington.

PH - As a freshman, many people haven't seen you play yet. How would you describe yourself as a player?

RP - I'm a scorer. I play really good D. I can rebound well.

PH - What are your hopes for this team and for the future?

RP - We'll be all right this year. Next year we're going to be better. We'll be good.

PH - Do you have any personal goals for your high school career?

RP - Not really, yet. I mean, I want to win Mr. Basketball. That would be nice.

PH - For sure. The big news this past week was that you were offered by IU and Purdue. I know you saw Tom Crean is here watching you tonight. How does that feel, getting that kind of early recognition?

RP - It feels really good. It's cool to have coaches come here and see us. I mean no one used to come to Broad Ripple.

PH - Besides Crean, who else has been to a game this year.

RP - Matt Painter from Purdue.

PH - I know you recently went to Purdue. Do you have any other visits coming up?

RP - Yeah. On the 25th, I'm going to IU for a game.

PH - Any early favorites, or are you wanting to make a decision anytime soon?

RP - I like IU and Purdue both. I'm not looking to make an early choice.

PH - Last one: The freshman class looks really good with guys like you, D'Vauntes, AJ Hammons, and Joel Smith. What separates you and makes you different from the other freshmen across the state?

RP - No freshman can jump like me. I think I get up really good.

PH - Thanks a lot for your time, Ron.

RP - No problem.

Patterson is a great kid with a big-time future. I look forward to seeing him more this year, and to seeing him develop at Broad Ripple under Coach Brandes over the coming years. Whoever lands Ron, they will be getting a heck of a player with a ton of potential.