Instagram: @j_frazier32

 

The men's varsity squad of Blue Ridge School has kicked off this season successfully with a 4-0 start. As the weeks continue on, obviously games will become tougher as teams start to gain a stronger on-court chemistry. Regardless, I feel Blue Ridge's chances to keep piling up victories remains strong due to several key points I acknowledged in my season preview of the program. For starters, you have the intelligence of the coaching staff, led by head coach Cade Lemcke, who all know how to put their players in positions for success, along with giving them words of wisdom for daily improvement. Second, there's the depth on the roster. During a standout 3-0 game run in their hosted 'Fall Shootout' back in October, the coaches implemented a strategy of subbing '5 in and 5 out,' which worked to a great degree. Oh, and a third notion of their potential further success involves the added height in their group this year; six guys stand over 6'5' tall. When regarding all of that, and more, it's honestly not much of a surprise to see the Barons undefeated so far. I expect them to keep the ball rolling. I'm confident in stating that senior forward, and big man on campus, Jaden Frazier '19, most likely contains that same mentality.

One of five seniors on the team, the 6'9' Frazier leads the unit of the Barons' frontcourt players. To go along with his height, he definitely has the frame of a next-level player already and put on some considerable muscle since the conclusion of last season. I watched him on the court for the first time during the 'Fall Shootout' and immediately perceived he would play a big role as one of Blue Ridge's key players. A lefty who can attack in either direction, Frazier has a special asset of knowing how to play at his own pace. Rarely does anything ever get him flustered or sped up; he knows what he wants and how he can get it. Around the rim, he finishes with high efficiency and asserts himself on the glass. Rebounding may arguably be his best skill; he's averaging close to ten boards a game in Blue Ridge's 4-0 start. On the defensive end, he has good instincts in getting steals and contesting/blocking shots.

Prior to entering his senior season, Frazier made the decision to commit to Chattanooga University for his college hoops. After forming a strong bond with the coaching staff, the senior realized it was the place he wanted to spend his next several years, post-high school.

'The way that Chattanooga's program made me feel and how we all shared the same vision for my career definitely played a big role in my decision,' Frazier explained. 'It was honestly a relief when it all came to a conclusion, honestly. The recruiting process sure is a challenging one, but I'm very blessed to have the opportunities that emerged for me all summer long, in terms of considering options for college.'

Coming on board into the 'Mocs' family ('Moc' is the mascot of Cattanooga) in 2019 as a first-year player, the coaching staff has already discussed with Frazier the skill he should take pride in the most to help bring wins.

'We've talked a little bit about my potential role next year. Obviously, nothing will be guaranteed, which I expect. But, the coaches have emphasized defensive rebounding the most. They see my potential in that type of production the most. The rest will take care of itself.'

Frazier already has a field of study in mind' and it's a broad one.

'I'm planning to study Communications once I get to campus.'

Yes sir, great choice! (I used Communications as part of double-minor in college.)

Now, with his college recruitment out of the picture, Frazier has two main goals on his mind for the course of this season.

'I'm mainly trying to step up as a better leader each day and winning that state championship. Nothing else matters to me all that much.'

Realizing that many of his younger frontcourt teammates look up to him, the senior veteran uses a specific way to demonstrate his leadership so that the new faces will comfortably learn what it takes to play as Baron.

'I definitely make it a goal to stay in the ears of our younger players. I guess you could say that I use the 'sponge technique.' Just using everything I've absorbed in the past three years and now trying to pass it on to the new guys. I want them to learn in the same way I did because I know, before they may realize it, they'll find their own selves as seniors.'

During his junior season, Frazier found success in doing what he does best around the paint, averaging seven points and 5.5 rebounds per outing. However, one could also note that he played more in the shadow of the Barons' senior talents (and leading scorers) in 2018: current college freshmen, Darius McGhee (Liberty University), Sardaar Calhoun (Missouri State-West Plains) and Myles Jones (Tusculum University). For this season, Frazier assures fans they can expect a difference in one main facet of his game.

'Confidence. Fans should see a lot more confidence from me if they're comparing to last season.'

An increase in confidence that correlates with his imposing size and mature approach to the court will make Frazier a force on the hardwood for these next several months. Blue Ridge has some big plans ahead of them and they should feel more than optimistic with Frazier anchoring the team's interior presence.

By the way, where does Jaden Frazier see himself in ten years'

''I see myself working as a social worker.'

 

 

 

 

 

Great start to the season, Jaden and Blue Ridge. Keep it going!