Theodore Patsalos '15 Recruiting Profile

I began my Academic and Basketball Life in a very modest Catholic School, St. Joseph's Elementary School in New Windsor, NY. Today I am getting ready to graduate from high school, Newburgh Free Academy, the Class of 2015. As I look back, I realize how St. Joe's helped mold me into the young man I have become today. This school was very instrumental in developing my character both on and off the basketball court. My Principal, Sister Lucy, would continually counsel me on Academics, Character, and Life. Sister Lucy reinforced that they all had to be balanced, along with my basketball. At times, we would just sit and talk. Sister Lucy would say to me, “You always give 110% on the basketball court; therefore you also need to do that with your academics and continue to build upon your character. At some point, basketball will eventually be gone. Your true success in life will be a result of your academics and character.” I now understand that these conversations with Sister Lucy helped develop me into becoming much more, and greatly different, than other college recruits. I’m hoping to find a college that will challenge me academically, as well as athletically, while continuing to improve my character both on and off the basketball court. My goal is to find the right school and stay for 4 years to receive a Bachelor’s Degree. As far as basketball is concerned, I would like to be a welcomed addition and essential part of the team. At 6’5”, and still growing, I’m blessed with the ability to play anywhere on the court. I box out and rebound extremely well. I see the whole floor at all times and am always looking to advance the ball. I’m competent at dribbling with both hands and will lead the break off the defensive rebound. I will attack and drive strongly to the rim and finish, as well as having the capacity to knock down 3’s. I look for the open man and will penetrate the lane to draw the defenders to dish to my teammates. I am constantly talking to my teammates while we are on the floor, communication is key. I have created an excellent mid-range game that I’ve established off my drive. I excel at playing lock down man to man defense, and enjoy pressing full court. I will frequently take charges in games, as well as also having the ability to block shots. I’m willing to do whatever it takes to assist our team to Conference Championships, and NCAA Bids each and every year, regardless of the NCAA Division of school that I will be calling home for the next 4 years of my life.