Making It Happen With Michael O´Connell
Michael O´Connell was born in Mineola, New York and played Point Guard at Blair Academy. Michael is ranked Top 20 at his position and ranked Top 5 in the state of New Jersey. He is committed to play at Stanford this fall.
Growing up, were you inspired by any NBA Players?
As a Point Guard, I always liked the play of both Steve Nash and Derrick Rose.
What high schools were your biggest rivals?
Last season at Blair Academy our biggest rival was the Hill School. Before at Chaminade High School, our biggest rival was St Anthonyś.
What songs do you listen to pregame, to get you hyped up?
I listen to a mix of Hip Hop and Rap music before games.
What is your offseason training like?
I did not really have an offseason in high school because I played three sports, football, basketball, and lacrosse. But now that I am going to college to play basketball, I have been training 6 days a week working on my handle, strength, and speed.
What are your favorite memories of your high school career?
Last year at Blair Academy it was beating the Hill School for the Mid Atlantic Prep League Championship. Before that at Chaminade High School it was beating Holy Trinity for the Long Island Catholic Championship.
What parts of your high school game, do you hope to transition to the college level?
The coaches say my vision and the way I share the ball getting my teammates involved, and also my on ball defense will immediately transition to the college level.
What made Stanford stand out from other schools?
The world class education at Stanford and also the chance to play basketball for coach Hasae.
What do you want to accomplish on and off the court during your time at Stanford?
Win a PAC 12 Championship and win a National Championship all while getting my Stanford diploma.
If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?
I would love to meet and talk basketball with Michael Jordan.
What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?
My favorite sports moment, as a fan was watching my older brother Thomas and his Maryland Lacrosse team winning the 2017 National Championship in Gillette Stadium.
