Player Spotlight: Nathan Swartwood

The Cager Report on PrepCA.com sits down with a top 2008 Arizona prospect, Nathan Swartwood, a 6-2 athletic SG from North Canyon High School. This high flyer has a new coach, and a new outlook on basketball...

Nathan Swartwood, 6-2 2008 SG Phoenix (Ariz.) North Canyon High School, missed the majority of last season due to injury, but the high flyer from North Canyon has a new coach and a new outlook on basketball.

Swartwood is an athletic guard who can attack the glass, play above the rim and a tremendous transition player.  He can shoot it from 19ft and gets great lift on his jumper.  More of a scorer than a shooter, Swartwood has worked hard on his shot over the last 6 months which could elevate him into a top 2008 Arizona prospect before seasons end.

Game experience is a key (after sitting out most of last season) for the up and coming Swartwood.

The CR had a chance to sit down with the North Canyon junior to talk about the coming season and his basketball future.

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Nathan Swartwood

School: North Canyon High School

Position: SG
Ht: 6"2 Wt: 170

High School Coach:    Acre

Cager Report: What were your stats from last season?
Swartwood: 13 pts 6 reb. 5 asst. 3 stl, I was injured most of last season.

CR: What is your official height and weight? Nathan: 6"2, 170lbs
Swartwood:  6'2, 170lbs

CR: What is your greatest basketball memory?
Swartwood:  I"d like to think that it is still in the making.

CR: What are your goals for the upcoming season?
Swartwood:  I will become more of a leader and look to improve my decision making in the transition.

CR: What aspect of your game have you really worked hard to improve?

Swartwood:  I have worked all summer to improve my jump shot and defense. What area would you like to keep improving on? I'm always looking to get better in all areas of the Game.

CR: Who are some of your teammates that people need to watch out for?

Swartwood:  Pat O'Mahoney, because he can shoot and drive to the basket effectively

CR: Name one teammate you really respect and why?

Swartwood:  I respect anyone who works hard and is dedicated.

CR: What are your goals regarding playing basketball in college?
Swartwood:  To be a consistent contributor, improve every year and get a great education.

CR: Would you consider staying in state to play in college?

Swartwood:  Yes

CR: What would your top 5 college choices be?
Swartwood:  ASU, UofA, I chose those two because they are Arizona Schools, but I'm open to any State or Conference

CR: Who is the best player you ever played against? Why?
Swartwood:  That is hard to say but Jerryd Bayless is up there. He is a big time scorer and very competitive.

CR: Name one opponent who you really respect and why?

Swartwood:  Justin Johnson, I used to play on the same YMCA and Club Team with him. He is a great shooter and works hard.

CR: How do you think your coach would describe you as a player?
Swartwood:  I think he would describe me as a fearless player who is a good athlete with alot of upside.

CR: What are your strengths and weaknesses as a player?

Swartwood:  My strengths would be my athleticism, aggressiveness and desire to compete at a high level. Things I am working to improve are being more consistent and team defense.

CR: Who is your favorite athlete and why?
Swartwood:  Kevin Garnett, He's all heart.

CR: What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Swartwood:  When I was 12 a former College Player who was working me out told me that whatever happens just keep playing ball, stay focused on my goal, work hard everyday and stay out of trouble. Which I think I’ve been able to do.

CR: Tell us what can we expect from your team this season?

Swartwood:  We should be greatly improved. We have a new Coach who is putting in a new system.

CR: What position do you think you will play in college?
Swartwood:  I'll play the 2

CR: What can a college program expect from you as a player?
Swartwood:  A College can expect a very dedicated Student and Athlete who can bring a well rounded game but is always looking to improve and work hard.

CR: What will the main factors be when you choose a school?

Swartwood: Well not location so much, just the program, staff and academics.

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