In the first of a couple of upcoming interviews, we got a chance to ask Roger O'Neil, a 6'5" senior guard out of Meadowdale, a few questions. Roger is the brother of former-Husky Women's Basketball player, Kristen O'Neill. Roger is a star in his own right, leading his team in scoring at 17.0ppg. Eight-ranked Meadowdale will face of against North Kitsap tomorrow in the 1st round of the 3A state tournament.
What goals did you set before the season, individually and as a team?
As a team, we wanted to win a Wesco South title (accomplished), win a NW district title (accomplished), and bring home some hardware from the T-Dome (we'll see)... As far as individual goals are concerned, I just wanted to do whatever I could to help the team reach those goals. It just so happened that this year, that meant scoring.
The last 2 years it was defense and setting up the offense from PG. I also obviosuly wanted to earn a scholarship to play at the next level, and I'm ecstatic that it worked out.
If you could credit one thing that has been crucial to your teams' success this year, what would it be?
One thing that has been crucial is we have 12 guys who love to compete every time we step on the floor.
What things have been key to Meadowdale's success as a team this season as compared to last season?
Well, we had success last season too. We missed out on a wesco title by 1 game (even though we beat the champion twice), and we didnt win districts, but we still made it to state which was obviously our goal. At state, we would have liked to have placed, but we got a real tough draw.
Our success last year was in large part to the fact that we had 5 scoring threats on the floor at all times. This year, we play incredible team defense and execute our offensive sets methodically. Our succes this year also has had a lot to do with the fact that we are probably one of the biggest teams in the state (starting lineup 6'0, 6'3, 6'4, 6'7, 6'7) so that causes lots of matchup issues for our opponants.
What current NBA or College player do you think you most resemble on the court and why?
I would have to say Paul Pierce because he is an over sized guard who can shoot the 3 and drive a little bit. Plus, he loves to post up, just like me. It helps a lot to be a big guard because you can post up smaller guards.
Do you still plan on playing at St. Martin's? What compelled you to play ball there?
Yes, I am still going to play at SMU. Before I was recruited, I was already familiar with the school and campus because my brother played baseball there from 2003-2007. Also, Meadowdale alum Jake Linton went on to play there and I had watched them play so I was familiar with their style of play and stuff.
When Coach Cooper and I started talking about hoops, I realized that is where I wanted to go. He runs a great program down there and it is going nowhere but up. So when I was offered a scholarship, it was a no-brainer.
Note: Here is our mini-preview to day one of the tournament..
photo source: [heraldnet]
Original Story:
http://www.seatownsports.net/2009/03/...
