On Sunday, The Rock School (FL) and NLPB 803 forward/big man Sasha Letino committed to Wingate over various other Division I and II programs. After watching him closely and covering him extensively over the last few years, Phenom Hoops decided to sit down and ask about what ultimately went into his decision. Let’s take a closer look…
PH: Talk about your journey and everything that went into this process.
SL: It’s been a long journey for me. Moving from my hometown Saint Petersburg, Russia to the United States to pursue my dream of playing college basketball was not easy. I haven’t been back in three years and don’t get to see my family often, but the sacrifice was worth it. Getting out of my comfort zone made me a better person and better basketball player.
PH: Even with Covid, how did your senior season impact your overall recruitment process'
SL: Despite covid, I still had a good season and got many looks from Division I and Division II programs. It was tough for schools to offer without seeing players in person, so I didn’t get as many offers as I wanted during the season, but had a good live period and ended up getting some good ones then.
PH: What was the main appeal of Wingate' Why did you choose the school over others'
SL: The main appeal of Wingate were the coaches and the overall strength of their conference. The coaches were very honest and wanted what’s best for me. On top of that, they love what they do and have a strong desire to win. Wingate is in the SAC (South Atlantic Conference), which is very competitive and arguably the best conference in Division II.
PH: How do you see yourself fitting in with the program going forward'
SL: I see myself as a big man who can do it all on the floor, able to play inside as well as on the perimeter. I’m a player that can initiate the offense, clean up the glass, and be an anchor on defense. I’m excited for my first year as a Bulldog!
Given everything we’ve seen from the 6-foot-9 Letino over the recent years, his modernized, low-maintenance identity should make him a very useful cog for Wingate going forward. He plays a hard, unselfish, blue-collar brand of basketball. His aforementioned rebounding and inside-out presence will always make him a valuable piece. Add in his defensive upside, leadership qualities, and understanding of how to operate within the team structure, and it’s impossible to envision anything other than continued success for Letino.