Yvon Mbenza '24 Recruiting Profile

My name is Yvon Mbenza, I've been playing basketball since I was eight and was always fascinated by the game. My Dad would always put on basketball when I was young he's more of a fan sometimes than I am, if it wasn't for his love of the game I don't think I would have ever picked up a basketball. I would stay up late on school days to watch Dwayne Wade play and as I watched him I felt entranced by the sport and every move made was nothing short of a masterpiece. Basketball has been helpful from the very beginning. It helped me make friends at a young age, I loved the game and soon realized that I had some talent for the game. I worked out consistently to get better and become the best player I can be. Many say that I work too hard or I'm a perfectionist, but I believe it's essential to push myself the way I do to become great.

I have always been good at my studies and have received high regard for my efforts in keeping my grades up, I like to get out of my comfort zone so I have been taking on harder classes and rigorous training challenging myself to become an elite student and athlete without sacrificing one or the other and I know it will pay off.  

I have never been a fan of losing in competitions. I would love to compete, but it's even more fun when I win. I would always compete with my older brother every day and was never satisfied until I beat him, basketball it's no different. I've got nothing but love for the game, and I also know that Jesus Christ will guide me on this journey and make every moment worthwhile.