For Class of 2017 shooting guard Mitchell Ballock, playing college basketball has always been a dream. Growing up just ten miles away from Allen Fieldhouse, he witnessed all of the excitement that Kansas basketball gave to fans, and when he was offered to play for them after his graduation in 2017, his commitment seemed like a foregone conclusion. “Obviously, Kansas has one of, if not, the best home court advantage in all of college basketball. That’s hard to turn down.” explained the 6’4”, 185lb shooting guard. However, when it came time for him to make a decision, Ballock took everyone by surprise in announcing his commitment to the Creighton University. “They’ll give me the best opportunity to get to the next level,” he said. “I’m looking forward to playing with the guys that are there. Hopefully we can go to the tournament and make a run.”

 

    Before he can step on the court for the Bluejays, Ballock has some unfinished business. After missing most of his Junior year with a torn labrum, he’s come back better than ever. “I came back at the end of the year and played four games this season because of the progress I made throughout the recovery process. I was able to get back in the flow of the game and compete for a state title.” Ballock said.

Although Ballock couldn’t lead Eudora High School (Eudora,KS) to a state title, he was able to show opponents that his injury is behind him. He has also been able to continue his recovery this offseason with his AAU team, KC Run GMC. Alongside D’Shawn Schwartz (‘17) and Bol Bol (‘18), Ballock has displayed his ability, not only to score the ball, but to be a solid facilitator. Ballock’s play of late has led KC Run GMC to a 7-1 record, putting them atop the 17U Under Armour Association standings.

 

    Ballock’s contribution to KC Run GMC goes beyond his play on the court, as he also played a key role in persuading four-star small forward, D’Shawn Schwartz to join the team. “Mitch helped recruit me to Run GMC,” Schwartz continued, “He was very cool from the start and introduced me to a lot of his friends, outside of team.”

Oftentimes during AAU season, many players use the circuit as a way to showcase their individual talents, but through his recruitment of Schwartz, Ballock exhibited his immense desire to win. If he can continue to play at such a high level, then KC Run GMC should be the favorites to take home the UAA crown. “One of my biggest goals is that I want to make it to the Under Armour finals and I want to win that.” the KC Run GMC guard said

 

    Despite Ballock’s strong play of late, he has struggled with injuries for most of his career. “Last summer, in June, I broke my hand. Then, in November, I broke my foot. I haven’t been healthy in a while.” he told me. Those injuries, in addition to his torn labrum, have hampered Ballock’s ability to truly exhibit his elite basketball talent. Thankfully, Ballock has been able to overcome these injuries with the help of his supportive family. “My siblings have been a huge influence in my growth as a player and as person. They just wanted what was best for me because what’s best for me is best for them.”

 

    Now that Ballock is healthy and playing his best, it’s easy to see why scouts are clamoring over the Class of 2017 guard, but for Ballock, he’s motivated by one thing: “I do this for my family and friends because they travel all around the country to watch me play. I want to share this with my brothers and sisters. I want to make a career out of the game and take it every step of the way.”