Oleka Gets His First

Ron Bailey, Publisher

Uber-athletic forward with high upside gets his first schollie offer.

July 20, 2010 - There are moments in an athlete's career that will always be remembered; the first time they scored, made the crowd cheer, first championship, proof of development, etc. Obi Oleka, a 6'7", 205 lb, senior forward with Northwestern High School and Kid's First Basketball (AAU) recently had such a moment, as Robert Morris tendered him a scholarship offer, his first.

"I feel elated...I'm seeing all my hard work paying off" said the quiet frontcourt performer of being provided a scholarship offer from Robert Morris' head coach, Andrew Toole. That first year program leader saw Oleka during Super Elite Showcase play recently.

Oleka attacks the rim with aggression.

"I practice everyday...working on jump shooting, dribbling, mostly everything" continued Oleka.

Obi, called "A freakish athlete" by his Kid's First coach, Lyndon DebBellotte, understands he also needs to "work hard to be more consistent. I can't take any plays off...Play hard every single play"

"Our motto is from to-tip-horn play hard" said DeBellotte of what he demands of Kid's first players (they made the Super Elite Showcase's finals).

"He's come a long way from a shy kid to opening up and working hard. He's just 16...He has a long way to go" continued DeBellotte, who also believes "You see glimpses of what he can do...I have faith in that kid".

That would include hitting three-balls, punishing rims, rebounding and running the floor.

All of that was seen by Toole, and he wont be the last to witness it.