The #2 Junior In Maryland: Kennedy Umeh

Kennedy Umeh is a 4 Star recruit who plays Forward at The McDonogh School. Umeh is ranked as the 27th best recruit in the class of 2024 and is ranked as a top 10 Forward in the class as well. In addition, Umeh is listed as the #2 recruit in the state of Maryland and is listed as the #1 Forward in the state of Maryland. Her top offers are South Carolina, UNC, and Mississippi State.

Who are some role models in your life?

Since childhood, my parents were the first role models in my life. Growing up as the first child they were the first two people I always had around me to shape my life, morals, and priorities. Then, as I grew up and got more involved in the basketball scene, my coaches became very important elements of my growth and were people I knew I could look up to. I always say that I am blessed to have the coaches I did at the times I had them. Finally, fellow players both on my team and on older teams are role models in my life as they inspire me to put in the effort and dedicate myself to being the best player I can be.

What artists do you listen to pregame, to get you hyped up?

I would say my go to artists are Flo Mili, Ski Mask, and Doja Cat.

What are the strengths of your game?

One of the biggest strengths to my game is my footwork. I think that for my size and build I have a good sense of how to get around my defender with agility and quickness. My frame also grants me a certain amount of strength and sturdiness which also helps me be a better player.

What is your favorite memory of your career?

This one is hard because I have two favorite memories. The first one was this summer when my team, Philly Rise, beat Boo Williams in the 16U bracket. We played as a team and worked hard to beat our opponent (All Iowa Attack) who we had lost the championship to last year. Now, my other favorite moment was seeing and feeling the gold confetti pieces fall around me and the USA team this summer when we won the World Cup in Hungary. 

Who is the best player you have ever played with or played against in your career?

I think the best player in my posterior that I’ve ever had to match up against is Breya Cunningham. She is very strong and deliberate in her moves and is an excellent finisher around the rim.

What is some advice you would give to an aspiring D1 athlete?

I would advise an aspiring D1 athlete to work hard at everything they do to go to the school of their dreams. Work hard and apply yourself in the classroom. Work hard to develop skills and hobbies that you live outside of basketball. Work hard on every rep every time you step into the gym. Focus on the little things then the big ones will fall into place. 

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?

I want to take a trip to Jamaica or Kenya. My family and I are from Nigeria, so I really want to visit some other African countries.

How old were you when you fell in love with the game?

I fell in love with the game the summer before eighth grade. That was the AAU season where it actually hit me that I really enjoy the sport and want to put in the extra time and energy to improve at it so I can play as long as possible.

If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?

Jesse Owens. His mental fortitude is so inspiring to me both as an athlete and in my day to day life.

What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?

My favorite sports moment was watching Arike Ogunbowale hit the buzzer beater in the 2018 National Championship. I vividly remember watching that game in the living room with my family. Something about watching the pure elation on her and her team’s faces when the final buzzer sounded was extremely memorable to me.