Matthieu Ionesco '17 Recruiting Profile

I’m from France and arrived in the US in 2009 when I was 11 years old, as my parents were moved here by their companies.

I discovered basketball in the US thanks to a very passionate coach, called  John Buckman and now I have one and only passion: play the game at the best level I can. I do everything I can every day to become better at it. I have achieved today in 4.5 years more than what others achieve in 10.

I’m a team player and help all my teammates, both on the court and off the court. I’m a true believer in team spirit and leading by example, I’m able and willing to sacrifice my body for a stop and help others to make a good play. I never settle for average and always strive for the best on and off the court. My speed and quickness give me an advantage over other players on defense, as I can anticipate passes, and will beat players to the ball on rebounds. I am also a natural shooter.

I want to be able to live my dream and give 100% for basketball, both on the court and off the court, I want to help lead and do everything to win. I can reach high 3 points shooting percentage in a game. I was born with a great jump shot and good shooting ability. I have been MVP of the High school for 2 years in a row in 2010 and 2011 and played for JV and Varsity for 3 years in a row 2010 to 2013. I played only Varsity in 2014-2015, 2015-2016 and 2016-2017.

I’m now leader in the Varsity team and also joined an AAU program with TJ Ford. I joined TJ Ford mid season and been able to integrate starting team straight away. I’ve been able to play and compete at the highest levels in tournaments, including Las Vegas Big Foot Hoops – Classic. Now I play with one of the best teams in Houston : the Houston Hoops. We have won some tournaments this season.

I still need to bring consistency to my game and  perfect my ball handling.

I’ve helped my brother to become a very good basketball player after he played for 2 years soccer when we arrived in the US.

I’m a good student and help also with Food Bank and have different volunteer activities related to BP MS 150 (found raising bike ride organized by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society South Central region). When my schedule allows me, I also work with a team of a gastronomic French restaurant in Houston for their catering events. 

My school is an international very well recognized school and I enjoy this multicultural spirit at school and also while playing basketball. Even if I am young, I had a chance to visit several countries around the world. I could describe myself as an international student athlete and a citizen of the world..